What is the Difference Between Law and Policy?

The main difference between law and policy lies in their definitions, purposes, and enforcement. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

1. Definition: Law refers to a set of standards or rules that govern people's behavior and are enforceable by courts. In contrast, policy is a set of protocols or procedures to implement a law or a guideline for an organization or government's actions.
2. Purpose: Laws are created to maintain law and order in society, with the aim of implementing justice. Policies, on the other hand, outline what a government intends to achieve and provide guidelines for actions that can lead to new laws.
3. Enforcement: Laws are administered through the courts and are enforceable. Policies, although not administered by courts, can lead to new laws and serve as guidelines for government or organizational actions.

In summary, laws are formal, rigid, and enforceable rules that govern people's behavior, while policies are more informal, flexible guidelines that outline the intended actions of a government or organization. Both laws and policies are essential for maintaining order and achieving specific goals in society.

Comparative Table: Law vs Policy

Here is a table highlighting the differences between law and policy:

In summary, laws are enforceable rules established by legal authorities to govern society, while policies are plans and guidelines created by various entities to achieve specific goals.