The Rule of Law: Origins, Meaning and Endangerment.

The article focuses on the concept of the Rule of Law, tracing its origins, evolution, and contemporary challenges. It defines the Rule of Law as the principle that political power must be exercised according to established, written laws to prevent arbitrary government action. The article outlines its historical development from limited ancient Greek and Roman ideas through the foundational English Magna Carta, highlighting key legal figures like Sir Edward Coke and Charles Evans Hughes, who expanded its scope to include judicial independence and access to justice. It also discusses modern elements such as transparency, constitutional democracy, and legal equality, while noting current threats to the Rule of Law stemming from political polarization, misinformation, and declining public trust.