Promises, Trust, and Contract Law

American Journal of Jurisprudence, Vol. 47, 2002

16 Pages Posted: 21 Jun 2006

Abstract

The need for individuals to be able to trust that promises will be performed is central to justifying a law that renders certain promises enforceable. This Article argues that the legal enforcement of certain promises to meet this need does not necessarily diminish the personal relationships of trust in which such promises are made, as has been argued. Rather, this Article argues, the making and performance of legally enforceable promises can assist individuals in building relationships of trust, as it assists them in the pursuit of myriad goods.

Keywords: Contract, contract law, contract theory, promise, trust

Suggested Citation

Bellia Jr., Anthony J., Promises, Trust, and Contract Law. American Journal of Jurisprudence, Vol. 47, 2002, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=910204

Anthony J. Bellia Jr. (Contact Author)

Notre Dame Law School ( email )

P.O. Box 780
Notre Dame, IN 46556-0399
United States
574-631-9353 (Phone)
574-631-8078 (Fax)

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