Monday, August 15, 2022

A History of Civil Law in Early China: Cases, Statutes, Concepts and Beyond A History of Civil Law in Early China

Author: 
Zhaoyang Zhang

Publisher: 
Brill

Publication year: 
2022




Abstract:
How did people solve their disputes over debt, compensation, inheritance and other civil matters in early China? Did they go to court? How did the authorities view those problems? Using recently excavated early Chinese legal materials, Zhang Zhaoyang makes the compelling argument that civil law was not only developed, but also acquired a certain degree of sophistication during the Qin and Han dynasties. The state promulgated detailed regulations to deal with economic and personal relationships between individuals. The authorities formed an integral part of the formal justice system, and heard civil cases on a regular basis.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Early cases concerning "civil" matters
The differences between Yu and Song
Early civil statutes
A detailed study on three civil sases
Fundamental concepts : Zhi, Mingfen and Min-si
Beyond civil laws
Conclusion: the Civil Law of Early China.