UNDERSTANDING THE POTENTIALS OF LAW AS AN INSTRUMENT OF SOCIAL ENGINEERING AND CHANGE

Abstract

The process of influencing and altering a society's social structures, behaviours, and conventions is known as social engineering. It entails utilizing a variety of instruments and methods to effect the intended changes in the society. The law is a vital instrument in social engineering. Laws are necessary for bringing about social change and are crucial in forming and directing society behaviour. The methodology adopted for this research is the doctrinal research method and data were collected through reference to primary sources such as laws, treaties, and judicial decisions, and through secondary sources such as books, journals, and online publications. It was found that laws are essential for forming and directing social behaviour, advancing social justice and equality, controlling behaviour and guaranteeing public safety, fostering economic growth and prosperity, advancing social change and advancement, and safeguarding the weaker and marginalized members of society. Critiques and restrictions, however, might make it more difficult for the law to effectively handle complicated societal concerns. Using the legal system as a vehicle for social change allows legislators, activists, and communities to take on urgent issues and move toward a more inclusive and equitable society.