Resumen

MOLINA OCHOA, Andrés. The role of coercion in hart's theory of rules . Ius et Praxis [online]. 2011, vol.17, n.2, pp. 305-330. ISSN 0718-0012.  doi: 10.4067/S0718-00122011000200011.

The objective of this article is to offer a new interpretation of the role of coercion in Hart's theory of rules. Firstly, it is discussed why an inaccurate interpretation of coercion makes impossible the important distinction between primary and secondary rules drawn by Hart. Secondly, it is analyzed the epistemological character of Hart's theory and the difference between coercion and social complains. Bases on these two clarifications, it is suggested that the role of coercion in secondary rules is to determine when we are in presence of a rule. Finally, some research lines and the solution to some controversies, following the main theses defended in this article, are suggested.

Palabras clave : Rules; Coercion; Hart.