Rule of law Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is the definition of the rule of law?
The idea that citizens, including the government, should be equal before the law, with checks and balances to ensure power is exercised according to the law.
What principle states that no one is above the law?
Equality before the law.
What must courts and the judiciary remain free from?
Bias.
List three characteristics of the rule of law.
- Equality before the law
- Checks and balances on the use of power
- Presumption of innocence.
What happens if the rule of law is not followed?
Anarchy.
What is anarchy?
The absence of the rule of law.
What can lead to anarchy?
- Absence of leadership or government
- Disorder from natural disasters or law outbreaks.
What is a consequence of anarchy in society?
Society can descend into chaos.
What does tyranny refer to?
A situation where one person has absolute power of a nation without checks and balances.
In what type of state does tyranny usually exist?
Police states.
How is power acquired in a tyrannical system?
Power is taken rather than given by the people.
True or False: In a tyranny, the power of the government is regulated.
False.
Fill in the blank: Anarchy is characterized by the _______ of laws.
absence.
