What is the term for "law" in Latin, central to Cicero's arguments?

The term for "law" in Latin is "lex." This word has a fundamental role in Latin legal terminology and is often used in legal contexts within Cicero's writings. The term signifies a formal rule or set of guidelines enacted by authority, and it encapsulates the concept of law as a structured and codified system of norms governing behavior in society.

In Cicero's philosophy, the concept of "lex" is essential as he often discussed the importance of law in maintaining justice and order in the republic. His advocacy for natural law and the rule of law heavily relies on the understanding of "lex" as foundational to legal principles and civic responsibility.

The other terms presented also relate to law but in slightly different contexts. "Jus" and "ius," for instance, refer more broadly to the idea of right or justice rather than a specific written law. "Legis" is the genitive singular form of "lex," meaning "of the law," which is not the stand-alone term for law itself. Understanding these distinctions enhances comprehension of Cicero's legal philosophy and the linguistic nuances within Latin.