Lecture on an international code of commerce morally and judicially considered

Abstract

The purpose and end of all social inquiries is to connect abstract theories with the practical business of life; to discover that link by which the conception of an idea may be joined to its realization, and to analyse, with mathematical precision, the elements composing it, so that sifted, and weighed in the balance of philosophical truth, it may be launched in the arena of public controversy. To a society formed for so dignified a purpose, presided over by the eminent and learned Prelate whom I have the honour to address, I need not enlarge on the importance of the inquiry now submitted for consideration. It may be set in the form of the following question:?By what means may we ameliorate and systematise the administration of justice, and extend the principles of pure ethics in the jurisprudence of nations?