One of the most influential works of legal theory ever written, A Discourse on the Study of the Law of Nature and Nations is a passionate defense of natural law and its place in the modern world. Drawing on a vast array of historical and contemporary sources, Sir James Mackintosh offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the foundations of legal authority, and the role of law in shaping human society. With its rigorous argumentation and lucid prose, A Discourse on the Study of the Law of Nature and Nations remains a vital work for anyone interested in the philosophy of law. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.