What defines a law?

A law is fundamentally defined as a system of rules governing behavior within a society. It serves to maintain order, protect individual rights, and promote justice by setting clear standards for acceptable conduct. Laws are enacted by legislative bodies and are enforceable through the legal system, providing a structural framework that dictates how individuals and organizations must behave. This ensures accountability and provides a mechanism for resolving disputes.

The other options, while related to various aspects of conduct and practices, do not capture the essence of what constitutes a law. Guidelines for business operations might inform practices but do not have legal enforceability. Recommendations for ethical practices often provide moral guidance but lack the authority of law. Similarly, a list of product specifications may pertain to standards in manufacturing or quality assurance but does not inherently define legal obligations or societal rules. Therefore, understanding law as a system of rules emphasizes its role in structured societal function and governance.