The Death of Contract Theory

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Corresponding Author, Department of Private and Islamic Law, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 phd Candidate in Department of Private and Islamic Law, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jlq.2025.380940.1007929

Abstract

The "Death of Contract" theory, developed in American law, has significantly influenced modern contract law by challenging the traditional view of contracts as static, discrete transactions. The term "death" underscores the challenges confronting classical contract law in the contemporary era. This theory posits that the traditional contract law model relies on outdated assumptions, including freedom of contract, which do not reflect the complex, multidimensional, and relational nature of modern contractual relationships. A key principle of this theory is the use of "relational contracts" as an effective mechanism to rejuvenate contract law. This study examines the principles of the Death of Contract theory and evaluates its role within the Iranian legal system using a descriptive-analytical approach and library-based research, focusing on American and Iranian law. The research hypothesizes that elements of the Death of Contract theory are present in Iranian law, and relational contracts—while preserving freedom of contract and incorporating tools such as custom, interaction, the jurisprudential rule of justice, and judicial adjustment—have the potential for implementation in this legal system.

Keywords

References

منابع
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Law Quarterly
Volume 55, Issue 1
April 2025
Pages 131-162

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