* Law refers to a system of rules created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to regulate behavior. It's a codified set of rules, regardless of their fairness or morality. Laws can be unjust.
* Justice refers to fairness, righteousness, and moral rightness. It's a broader concept encompassing ethical principles and a sense of what is right and wrong. Justice seeks to ensure that everyone receives what they deserve.
The difference is often seen in situations where the law is applied, but the outcome doesn't feel just. For example:
* A law might be technically legal but morally repugnant.
* A law might disproportionately affect certain groups, leading to injustice.
* A law might be poorly written or inconsistently applied, resulting in unequal outcomes.
In short, law aims to create order and predictability, while justice aims to achieve fairness and equity. A just society strives to align its laws with justice, but achieving perfect alignment is a continuous and often challenging process.