Making sense of evil law
Lukina, A.
(2025).
Making sense of evil law.
Law and Philosophy,
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10982-025-09543-6
In this paper, I seek to introduce, define, and ultimately defend the concept of ‘evil law’. Firstly, I look at the reasons – both theoretical and moral – why using the concept of evil law is valuable. Secondly, I argue that evil law is distinct from merely bad or unjust law and can be defined as law, which, if interpreted in its best light, will inflict or enable intolerable harm (including atrocities) to victims themselves. Thirdly, I claim that evil law is indeed law despite objections based on both its external and internal immorality. Fourthly and finally, I reject the challenge that using the vocabulary of evil law is empty at best and dangerous at worst.
| Item Type | Article |
|---|---|
| Copyright holders | © 2025 The Author |
| Departments | LSE > Academic Departments > Law School |
| DOI | 10.1007/s10982-025-09543-6 |
| Date Deposited | 21 Jul 2025 |
| Acceptance Date | 25 Jun 2025 |
| URI | https://researchonline.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/128898 |
Explore Further
- https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105018491344 (Scopus publication)
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1112-8806
