Table of Contents

Acknowledgments; Introduction; 1. Classical origins; 2. Medieval roots; 3. Liberalism; 4. Locke, Montesquieu, the Federalist papers; 5. Consrvatives warn; 6. Rradical left encourages decline; 7. Formal theories; 8. Substantive theories; 9. Three themes; 10. International level; 11. A universal human good?

Promotional Information

This 2004 book explores the history, politics, and theory surrounding the rule of law ideal.

About the Author

Brian Z. Tamanaha is Chief Judge Benjamin N. Cardozo Professor of Law at St. John's University School of Law.

Reviews

'Terrific. Brian Tamanaha has written a book that should educate not only every student and layperson who reads it, but also scholars who wrongly think there is nothing new to say about 'the rule of law' ... I hope it gets the wide readership it deserves.' Sanford Levinson, Professor of Law, University of Texas Law school, author of Wresting with Diversity 'The rule of law seems increasingly important and desirable. But the question remains: what is it? In his short book On The Rule Of Law, Brain Tamanaha seeks to answer this basic question, and he succeeds. This is a valuable work that fills the need for a clearly articulated introduction to this now widely praised, but often poorly understood, political ideal. ... For anyone seeking to evaluate the multitude of public statements or academic works that promote, critique, or disparage the rule of law, this book is an excellent point of departure for that evaluation.' Law and Politics Review