It is that rule which, under the same circumstances, would be equally binding on all moral beings. A declaratory, but authoritative precept, as distinguished from counsel or compact. The precept should forbid all that is naturally wrong, or in any degree inconsistent with the nature, relations and highest happiness of moral beings. It should define and require all that is according to the nature, and relations, and essential to the highest happiness of moral beings. Another essential element of law is, requisite sanctions.
Sanctions are the motives to obedience.
They should be remuneratory and vindicatory. In addition to this, there should be superadded, to obedience, the favour of the ruler, and to disobedience his displeasure. The sanctions should be equivalent to the value of the precept. Prescription, or publication, is essential to the binding obligation of law. Law is a unit.