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Johannes Oldendorp as Founder of Lutheran Natural Law Teachings

Publication at Faculty of Law |
2019

Abstract

The author deals with the figure of Johann Oldendorp (around 1488-1567), who can be considered the founder of Lutheran natural law teachings. In the beginning, the article deals with his law studies as well as his subsequent work at northern German universities, which is also complemented by activities in the services of local cities.

In that place, Oldendorp learns about the teachings of Luther's reformation, which he begins to support. The reformation also influences his dramatic life fates to a great extent, he can undisturbedly focus on his academic work only after 1540 in Marburg, Hessen.

If his contribution to legal science is concerned, the author points out his 1529 work on law and justice, in which Oldendorp intends in particular on the phenomenon of natural law and possibility of achieving justice in a particular case. His attitudes to canon law, the doctrine of the state, and, finally, his views on representatives of legal professions are mentioned too.