Authentic interpretation in canon law. Reflections on a distinctively canonical institution

Authentic interpretation has followed a fascinating development. Its roots reach deep into Roman law and its complexity has fueled long debates in the Middle Ages. Shaped in its full form by Francisco Suarez, it has incorporated a new vision of human throught proposed by the great moral theologians of the post-tridentine period. Moreover it has been a fine example of the quality of Pian-Benedectine codification and of its reform conducted after the Second Vatican Council.