Final answer:
If police take political direction, the rule of law in a constitutional democracy is compromised, leading to potential abuses where police could act above the law against citizens. This fundamentally undermines the principles of equality and justice that are crucial to a functional democratic society. A is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we examine the statement, "once the police take political direction, the rule of law is subverted [ruined]. and the rule of law, it must be emphasized, is a pillar of constitutional democracy" by Barry Cooper, we delve into the consequences of the police being influenced by political agendas. In a country where police take political direction, the impartial enforcement of the law is compromised, as police actions may then serve the interests of certain political groups rather than the public as a whole. This can erode public trust in the legal system and damage the foundational democratic principle of rule of law.
Considering the options presented, the most accurate outcome in a scenario where the police are politically directed would be that the police would be above the law and could act against citizens (Option D). This condition implies that the police would act on behalf of political powers, possibly infringing on individual rights, and acting without the checks and balances that a constitutional democracy provides to prevent such abuses.
In essence, the constitutional democracy is built upon the principle that no one is above the law, and this includes law enforcement. The rule of law is essential for a functional and fair justice system, ensuring equality before the law, and is a cornerstone of societal development and economic stability.