Question

14. Which legal principle asserts that society should be governed by laws, not by the decisions of individuals? (1 point) equality under the law

innocent until proven guilty
rule of law
trial by jury

Answer 1

The principle that society should be governed by laws rather than the whims of individuals is called the rule of law, which ensures laws are applied fairly and equally to everyone, with the Constitution being the highest authority.

Step-by-step explanation:

The legal principle which asserts that society should be governed by laws and not by the arbitrary decisions of individuals is known as the rule of law. This principle is essential to the democratic ideal that no one, regardless of status, is above the law. Discretionary power is curtailed to ensure laws are applied consistently and fairly to all members of society.

Sir William Blackstone, an important figure in the development of this principle, emphasized through British Common Law that presumed innocence and the consistent application of laws are fundamental for justice within society. The rule of law requires that laws must be clear, public, fair, and enforced equally, providing protection for individual rights and property.

In the United States, the Constitution is recognized as the supreme law, reinforcing the idea that not even government officials are exempt from legal accountability. This foundational principle ensures that all political decisions are made in accordance with established laws, maintaining unity and equity across different cultures, politics, and backgrounds within the nation.

Answer 2

The legal principle that asserts that society should be governed by law is the principle of "rule of law."

This principle states that everybody should be subject to the law, no matter their position in society, nobody is above anybody.

Following this principle, both the citizens and the government should know and obey the law, and they should both be guided by it.

This is different in monarchies were monarchs or rules are a step above the law.