European Yearbook in Law and Sociology 1977

This is the first volume in a new series of European Yearbooks in Law and Sociology. As the Editorial Board we have considerable pleasure in being able to inaugurate this series, and to do so with a collection of articles from such distinguished contributors. For a number of years the need for a regular outlet for European work in law and sociology has been appreciated, and many individuals have co-operated in laying the foundations for this series. The we are preparatory work that was done has been most valuable. Equally delighted that the series is launched with the encouragement and backing of both the Research Committee on Sociology of Law of the International Sociological Association and the Institute of Sociology of Law for Europe. Indeed the current activities of the Research Committee and the recent establishment of the Institute, together with this series of Yearbooks, permit optimism that work in this field in Europe will progress and develop as never before. Whether this will happen does depend however, quite simply, on the nature of the research and writing that follows and the quality of work accomplished.