Book excerpt: This casebook traces the development of contract law in the English and American common law traditions. Like earlier editions, the 8th edition features authoritative introductions to major topics, carefully selected cases, and well-tailored notes and problems. The casebook is ecumenical in its outlook, presenting a well-balanced approach to the study of contract law without ever losing sight of the importance of doctrine in all its detail. Cases are situated within a variety of disciplines - history, economics, philosophy, and ethics--and present the law in a variety of settings - commercial, familial, employment, and sports and entertainment. The 8th edition will feel familiar yet fresh to current users and both exciting and comfortable to newcomers to contracts or to this casebook.