Gaius's Institutes presents Roman law through translation and commentary by Edward Fourteenth Poste. Work was re-edited by E.A. Whittuck with historical introduction by A.H.J. Greenidge. Text based on Krueger and Studemund's edition with extensive corrections
Law consists of rules that specify behavior and create competences. Legal rules are enforced by state organs with specific sanctions. Most legal rules are explicitly created by state agencies. Law differs from morality in being enforced and having clear standards
Gross negligence means lack of slight diligence or care. Falls below standard of care expected by even careless person. Some jurisdictions allow punitive damages for gross negligence
Jus gentium means "law of nations" in Latin. Not a statute law but customary law held by all nations. Derived from Roman legal theory and canon law after Christianization
Civil law originated in ancient Rome and spread across Europe. Common law originated in England and spread to colonies. Both systems shape countries' legal systems worldwide
Gaius divided law into Jus Gentium (common to all) and Jus Civile (state-specific). Ulpian proposed three-fold division: Jus Civile, Gentium, and Naturale. Jus Civile was divided into narrower Jus Civile and religious Jus Pontificium