Trust, in the broadest sense of a confidence in one's own expectations, is a fundamental aspect of social life. In everyday life, trust is often discussed in a moral context. In contrast, Luhmann analyzes the functions, conditions, and tactics of trust from a social science perspective. The primary goal is to expand the realm of rational actions as much as possible. This can be achieved by being able to engage in higher risks through personal trust or trust in the functioning of societal systems. Niklas Luhmann discusses the often-loaded concept of trust, as understood in everyday language and traditional ethical frameworks, within the framework of theoretical sociology in this now-classic book, presenting it in such a vivid and stimulating manner that the book has remained relevant since its publication.