Normative positions within an algebraic approach to normative systems

The formal analysis of normative systems as initiated by Alchourrón and Bulygin can be complemented by the analysis of normative positions as pursued by Kanger, Lindahl, Sergot and Jones. The paper is a step towards integrating the two approaches within an algebraic theory of so-called Boolean quasi-orderings (Bqo's). In the general Bqo theory presented, a number of theoretical tools are introduced and elucidated by theorems, in particular those of fragment, connection, coupling and pair coupling. Condition implication structures (cis's) are models of the Bqo theory used for the representation of normative systems. A system of normative positions is introduced as a special kind of cis. The final section is devoted to an example exhibiting a legal mini-system where a cis of normative positions (np-cis) is joined to a descriptive cis.