The distinguished professor of Philosophy of Law at UAM, Elías Díaz, has passed away. Known for his academic contributions, his role as a professor to the King, and his participation in Cuadernos para el Diálogo, Revista Sistema, and the Center for Constitutional Studies, his legacy transcends generations.
Although his study topics often distanced themselves from the interests of students, he managed to capture everyone's attention by addressing fundamental aspects of the legal system, its structure, function, and justification. A respected figure and teacher to many, Díaz also stood out as a writer, exploring socialist issues in works such as "Legality and Legitimacy in Democratic Socialism."
Remembered for his warmth and conversational skills, his influence extended through the School of Philosophy of Law he founded, which has produced renowned jurists such as Atienza, Ruiz Miguel, de Lucas, and Cristina Sánchez. Díaz broke with the natural law paradigm in Spain by introducing the works of Kelsen, Hart, Ross, Bobbio, and Treves.
Elías Díaz was kidnapped in 1969, resulting in his deportation to Villagordo, Jaén, marking a tragic chapter in his life. As a professor, he excelled in brilliance and the ability to generate critical thinking. Beyond his academic work, he is remembered as a friend, a caring father, and a key figure in the Asturian transition.
His legacy endures in his writings, such as "Rule of Law and Democratic Society," published in 1966 and still relevant today. With provocative phrases like "Not every state is a rule of law state," he challenged the convictions of Minister Fraga Iribarne, even facing the kidnapping of his publications. Elías Díaz leaves an indelible mark on the history of philosophy of law in Spain.
