What is the general definition of law?

The general definition of law is best captured as a system of rules established by government. This perspective of law encompasses the notion that legal systems are structured frameworks set up to regulate behavior within a society. Laws are formally enacted through legislative processes and are meant to be enforced by governmental authorities, which distinguish them from personal beliefs, moral codes, or ethical guidelines.

This definition emphasizes that laws possess authority and apply uniformly to individuals and entities within the jurisdiction they govern. It reflects the idea that laws serve to create order, provide protection, and establish standards of conduct that society agrees upon. This contrasts with personal beliefs and ethics, which can vary widely among individuals and are not necessarily codified or enforced by an authority.