Different Kinds of Law: Statutory Law vs Common Law

In earlier societies, law was believed to be discovered rather than declared by rulers. Modern legislation is perceived as having more hubris and being based on the Enlightenment ideas. The distinction between statutory law and common law is crucial. Common law is considered superior as it is more subtle and responsive to people's needs. It is less prone to influence by special interest groups compared to statutory law, where interest groups can manipulate laws for their benefit. Common law is difficult to change as it is based on real cases brought before judges, reducing the potential for abuse.