Examines doctrine reconciling forces of power & law, especially in liberal democratic society. Theories & definitions (Hobbes, Locke), values, institutions, letter vs. spirit, Marxist & feminist critiques.
This paper will discuss the rule of law, including the various theories presented on the subject and the criticisms of these theories. Much of the paper will focus upon the liberal democratic theories on the rule of law, since it has largely been examined in this context. Although some argue that a liberal democratic society is not necessary for the development of the rule of law, this paper will argue that only in a liberal democratic society can the rule of law be developed to the fullest extent possible. Thus, this paper will tend to favor a values interpretation of the rule of law, over an institutional approach.