Abstract
This introductory chapter lays the groundwork for a reimagined legal theory tailored to the post-Soviet states, a region still grappling with the legacy of statist, positivist legal traditions. The author critiques the long-standing Soviet-era framework that conflates law with the interests of the state, arguing for a departure from this approach toward a concept of law as an autonomous, societal phenomenon. The chapter introduces the “common theory of law” as a foundational shift, emphasizing law’s role not just in governance but in shaping and reflecting broader societal values. The author frames this textbook as a timely response to persistent issues like legal nihilism, the erosion of critical thinking, and the lack of high-quality legal materials in English for the region. It outlines the book’s structure and pedagogical goals, aiming to present law as a value-driven public good that promotes justice, integration, and societal development. This new perspective seeks to equip students, scholars, and practitioners with tools for meaningful legal reform and engagement in post-Soviet contexts.