Summary

The author discusses problems of the definition of ‘legal consciousness’, presents a differentiated view on different parts of the topic. From a psychological point, ‘legal consciousness’ is seen as an element of the general structure of consciousness. Important aspects in both parts of ‘legal consciousness’—the knowledge about law and the subjective reception are important topics. Both parts influence the behaviour. Research shows that offenders are more informed about the law than the law-abiding members of society. Behaviour also is more or less not influenced by the variable how the law is seen by people. So a person can be informed about law and punishment and evaluate it as reasonable and good but nevertheless break the rules. The author concentrates on a theoretical definition of ‘legal consciousness’. A central point that plays a role in the legal consciousness is the ‘legal cognition’, a feeling about right and wrong in a society.