Comparison of approaches to the concept of consumer protection

Abstract

This publication is devoted to the study of the approaches of Russian authors to the definition of consumer protection. The Institute of Consumer Rights Protection has existed for several decades in our country and is the object of research for many specialists of the legal environment. The foundation for this institution was the rights and interests of exclusive economic entities that are part of the user segment. Considering that a widely developed conceptual apparatus is being implemented within the boundaries of this institution, this situation becomes especially important. We believe this is due to the fact that the content of this concept is assumed to be obvious — and this is fundamentally wrong. The concept reflects the essential features of the object, and therefore their incorrect reflection can lead to erroneous law-making activities and legal practice. In the article, the authors primarily separate the concepts of "consumer" and "protection of rights" in order to more deeply consider the structure of legal relations arising between a consumer and a business entity, as well as the internal features of consumer protection measures. It is worth emphasizing that special attention was paid to the definition of these concepts from a legal point of view. In addition, the definitions formulated by domestic authors were considered. The concept of consumer protection formulated by V.M. Kosoborodov stands out in particular. In the final part of the article, the authors focus on the fact that the conceptual apparatus in the business sector is not perfect. In this regard, this study was aimed at developing a more complete definition of consumer protection, since one of the main tasks of the state is the protection of human rights.