Introduction. Norm-Theory and Criminal law

Abstract

The discussion of the present issue of “Revista Discusiones” is introduced around the work of Juan Pablo Mañalich concerning the ontology of norms. After contextualizing the debate around the nature of norms and their two main conceptions elaborated by Alchourrón and Bulygin, the consequences of adopting one or the other are analyzed, both for criminal law and for the conception of legal systems in general. Subsequently, a general presentation is made of what adopting an artifactual theory of norms implies. Likewise, the main points of disagreement between commentators and Mañalich’s work on each of the issues addressed are explained.