The presentations are divided into three major sections: theory, comparative perspectives, and special studies. The theory section discusses the social necessity of law, its functions, and its spheres of operation; debates the question of whether the law serves public or private interests; and criticizes contemporary and earlier theorists. The section on comparative perspectives considers aspects of the legal systems of several countries, including the United States, Canada, England, Germany, India, Japan, and the Soviet Union. Also addressed are such issues as the relation of the legal profession to government and private interests; the eventual separation of judicial decisions from political control; and the practices, attitudes, and laws regarding the right to counsel and admission of evidence. The special studies section deals primarily with United States issues, including such topics as the rationality and representativeness of legislatures, whether juries are instruments of justice or prejudice and conformity, how to control heroin, and the causes and prevention of juvenile delinquency. An index is provided, and notes and references accompany each presentation. (Author abstract modified)