What is emptio spei?

Emptio spei is a Latin term that translates to "purchase of hope." It refers to a type of contract in Roman law where a buyer acquires the hope or expectation of a future benefit, rather than a specific, tangible item. This concept highlights the distinction between contracts involving clearly defined goods and those based on uncertain outcomes or possibilities. Essentially, it underscores the notion of buying potential rather than certainty in a transaction.