Friends and the Law: Can Public Policy Support the Institution of Friendship?

In: Policy review: the journal of American citizenship, Heft 145, S. [np]

Abstract

Argues that the institution of friendship deserves the same legal protection & recognition as families, households, & professional relationships. A definition of a friend is provided, delineating several core characteristics of friendship. It is contended that the centrality of friendship to people's lives requires that law take notice. Further, laws, legal institutions, & public policy agendas should be oriented toward promoting & facilitating friendship. D. Edelman