Should We Compare Laws or Cultures?

Abstract

Law and culture are inextricably linked. Hence, a meaningful comparison of laws will have to take into account the cultural background and the context. The relevance of the ‘culture-factor’ in comparison depends on the nature and the scope of the project. This culture-oriented approach sensitizes for the relativity of legal systems which, in turn, calls for a prudent assessment of the common ground. It should also foster (more) interdisciplinary cooperation.