Key points of Villey's critique of subjective rights: Historical Inaccuracies: Villey contended that the subjective right did not exist in classical Roman law, a claim that has been debated by historians. Nominalism and Subjective Rights: He associated the emergence of the subjective right with the philosophical and theological nominalism of William of Ockham. Emphasis on Individual Rights: Villey argued that the concept of subjective right shifted the focus from the common good and the social order to the individual and their rights. Critique of Natural Law: He also critiqued the abstract conception of natural rights that often underlies subjective rights, arguing that rights are not simply derived from human nature but from the interaction between law and the natural ends of social organization.

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Michel Villey, a prominent legal philosopher, argued that the modern concept of "subjective right" is a relatively recent development, linked to the philosophical movement of nominalism and the works of figures like William of Ockham. He criticized the notion of subjective rights, claiming they were not present in Roman law and emerged with the dawn of Western modernity. Villey argued that the concept of subjective rights, which emphasizes an individual's entitlements and claims, fundamentally altered how law and rights were understood. 

Key points of Villey's critique of subjective rights:

• Historical Inaccuracies:

  Villey contended that the subjective right did not exist in classical Roman law, a claim that has been debated by historians. 
• Nominalism and Subjective Rights:

  He associated the emergence of the subjective right with the philosophical and theological nominalism of William of Ockham. 
• Emphasis on Individual Rights:

  Villey argued that the concept of subjective right shifted the focus from the common good and the social order to the individual and their rights. 
• Critique of Natural Law:

  He also critiqued the abstract conception of natural rights that often underlies subjective rights, arguing that rights are not simply derived from human nature but from the interaction between law and the natural ends of social organization. 
• Juridical Realism:

  Villey favored a more realistic approach to law, emphasizing the connection between legal texts and the practical application of the law in real-world situations, rather than abstract notions of rights. 

In essence, Villey's critique of subjective rights aimed to shift the focus of legal and philosophical thought away from the individualistic and abstract understanding of rights towards a more practical and social understanding of law and its role in society. 

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