The work of Eugen Ehrlich (1862 - 1922) is directly relevant for an understanding of law in society and of the role of sociology of law, for both law and social sciences. Today, it is possible to see behind the smokescreen of historical debates and to assess his key ideas in the light of today's problems. The coexistence of state and local law still challenges lawyers and decision-makers. Ehrlich suggests sociology of law as an instrument to address social and legal problems that supplements standard legal methodology. Articles in this book place Eugen Ehrlich in the context of his times, outline the international reception of his work and show the relevance of his thoughts for contemporary issues.

Knut Papendorf is Professor for Sociology of Law at the University of Oslo. Anne Hellum is Professor for Public and International Law at the University of Oslo. Stefan Machura is Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Bangor University (Wales).