What does the rule of law imply?
that every citizen is subject to the law
Even lawmakers?
Yes
What does this differ from?
an autocracy, dictatorship, or oligarchy
Why?
Because that is where the rulers are held above the law.
What is the principle of the rule of law?
that law should govern a nation,
As opposed to what?
to being governed by arbitrary decisions of individual government officials
What does it mainly refer to?
the influence and authority of law within society
Where can the phrase be traced back to?
16th century Britain
Who used it in their argument against the divine right of kings?
Samuel Rutherford
Who was he?
Scottish theologian
When did it become more popular?
in the 19th century
By whom?
A. V. Dicey.
Who was he?
British jurist
Who was familiar to the concept?
ancient philosophers
Like who?
Aristotle
What did he do?
He wrote "Law should govern".
Where can a lack of this rule be found?
in both democracies and dictatorships
What is an example?
because of neglect or ignorance of the law, and the rule of law is more apt to decay if a government has insufficient corrective mechanisms for restoring it.
What is it called when government is based on that rule?
nomocracy.
Does it apply to government officials?
Yes