Constitutionalism in the Guise of Evolutionism. Certain Aspects of the Theory of State and Law by Friedrich von Hayek Cover Image

Konstitucionalizam u ruhu evolucionizma. Neki aspekti teorije države i prava Friedrich von Hayek-a
Constitutionalism in the Guise of Evolutionism. Certain Aspects of the Theory of State and Law by Friedrich von Hayek

Author(s): Aleksandar Savanović
Subject(s): Constitutional Law, Epistemology, Political Philosophy, Political Theory, Contemporary Philosophy, Philosophy of Law
Published by: Fakultet političkih nauka Univerziteta u Banjoj Luci
Keywords: Friedrich von Hayek; constitutionalism; evolutionism; theory of state; theory of law; judicial authorities;

Summary/Abstract: In this paper, we analyse the relationship between the theory of state and law by Friedrich Von Hayek and the constitutionalist tradition of the 18th and 19th century, with emphasis on Hayek’s evolutionary interpretation of the origin of state institutions. We will point out the specificity of evolutionary approach in the context of the distribution of powers concept, especially the functional role of the legal system and special emphasis on the role of judicial authorities in the development of law. In this aspect, Hayek’s theory of state contains one of the fundamental critics of democratic political procedures. The key aspect marking the Hayek’s approach to the theory of law is the strong emphasis on the verge of rationality and therefore the marked importance of customary and traditional norms in the preservation of the legal system rationality, as well as the subordination of legislation to what Hayek calls law.

  • Issue Year: 2/2012
  • Issue No: 4
  • Page Range: 205-227
  • Page Count: 23
  • Language: Serbian