S u m m a r y

The author draws attention to the postmodern critique of basic assumptions of the paradigm of jurisprudence, i.e., classical logic and ethics, rationalism and utilitarianism of the Enlightenment, and also positivism and naturalism. In particular, the author points out the contemporary neglect of profound research in the field of axiology of law, especially criminal law. He also emphasizes that the hermeneutics of the language of law semantically must be associated with a certain culture and its value system. The interpretation of law should pay attention to the meta-narrative context of the law, including original and relevant anthropological, ethical, social and cultural background of legislative decisions.

Key words: interpretation of the law, axiology of law, philosophy of law, legal science paradigm, postmodernism.