This volume investigates the fundamental theoretical and practical principles that underpin the structure of criminal law. Editors Leo Katz, Michael S. Moore, and Stephen J. Morse compile a rigorous selection of readings and expert commentary to examine the intersection of moral philosophy, legal doctrine, and social policy. The text provides a framework for understanding how liability, justification, and punishment are conceptualized within the modern legal system.

Legal scholars and students frequently utilize this text as a foundational resource for understanding the philosophical underpinnings of criminal jurisprudence. The prose maintains a high level of academic density, making it a standard reference for those engaged in advanced legal study.