Eigenständiges Sachenrecht?

The 3rd book of the German Civil Code, the so-called 'Sachenrecht' (property law), is unique compared to other laws. It is founded on the historical assumption that a civil right pertaining to things differs substantially from other rights. This assumption is also the root of certain principles which characterize the 3rd book. In this study, the author analyzes both the historical assumption and the development of the principles in practice in Germany. His suggestion is to simplify the law and to abandon the theory of a genuine 'Sachenrecht'.