Rule of Law
High School
Definition
The principle that everyone, including the government, is subject to and accountable under the law. An independent judiciary interprets laws and protects rights, ensuring that power is exercised fairly and not arbitrarily.
Worked examples
In the United States, President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 after the Supreme Court ruled he must hand over tape recordings, showing no one is above the law.
Even the most powerful executive had to comply with judicial rulings and face accountability.
The Magna Carta (1215) limited the English king's power by establishing that the monarch must obey written laws and could not imprison nobles arbitrarily.
This historic document is an early example of rule of law constraining government authority.
Common mistakes
- Rule of law means the government makes whatever laws it wants and everyone must obey. → Rule of law means government itself must obey the law and cannot act arbitrarily. The principle limits government power; it's not just about citizens following laws.
- Rule of law only protects the wealthy or powerful from punishment. → Rule of law applies equally to everyone, protecting all individuals' rights. Equal treatment under law is a core feature; no one gets special exemptions.
- As long as laws exist, rule of law is automatically in place. → Rule of law requires independent courts that can check government power and protect rights. Without an independent judiciary to enforce limits, laws alone don't guarantee rule of law.
Where you'll use it next
You'll apply rule of law when studying constitutional government, separation of powers, judicial review, civil rights movements, and comparing democratic versus authoritarian systems in civics and world history.
See also
Rights and FreedomsDemocracyCourts and LawsConstitutional DevelopmentCanadian Constitution and CharterPolitical Institutions
Reviewed by Pat Cheng, M.Ed. — StudyPug Curriculum Lead · Last updated June 6, 2026