Write a note on legal realism.

Legal realism is a legal theory that emerged in the early 20th century, challenging traditional notions of law as an abstract, formal system of rules detached from social, economic, and political realities. Advocates of legal realism argued that law should be understood and interpreted in the context of its social, economic, and political environment, rather than as a set of timeless, objective principles. Legal realists emphasized the role of judges in shaping and interpreting the law, highlighting the influence of subjective factors such as personal values, social context, and practical considerations in judicial decision-making. They argued that law should be studied empirically, examining its actual impact on society and its effectiveness in achieving justice and social goals. Legal realism contributed to a more nuanced understanding of law as a dynamic, evolving institution shaped by social forces, and paved the way for interdisciplinary approaches to legal scholarship that incorporate insights from sociology, psychology, economics, and other disciplines.