Pettit - PHIL 1502

Rule of Law

A principle of governance in which all persons, institutions, and entities are accountable under the law.

Classical Athens

Ancient city-state often viewed as a model of democracy and rule of law, despite its deficiencies.

Callisthenes Reforms

Reforms in Athens during the late sixth century B.C.E. that enhanced the power of ordinary citizens.

Kratos

Greek word meaning 'power,' relating to the democratic principle that the demos (people) have power.

Lottocratic Procedures

Systems that utilize lotteries to select members for governing bodies in ancient Athens.

Demos

The common people of Athens, whose power was recognized in the democratic system.

Nomothetai

Ad hoc committees in ancient Athens responsible for legislative proposals and law changes.

Ecclesia

The Athenian assembly that included all citizens and was a key body in the political process.

Dikasteria

Popular courts in ancient Athens, selected by lot, where trials were held based on citizens' oaths.

Judicial Interpretation

The process by which judges apply the law in individual cases, often lacking uniformity in classical Athens.

Juror's Oath

An oath sworn by jurors in Athens, committing them to impartiality and fidelity to the law.

Coherent Law System

A system in which laws are consistent and do not provide conflicting instructions.

Non-retrospective Laws

Laws that do not apply to actions that occurred before the laws were established.

Publicly Promulgated Laws

Laws that are established and accessible to all citizens, ensuring common awareness of legal standards.

Legal Precedent

A legal principle established by the outcome of former court cases, which Athens lacked.

Arbitrary Government

A system of governance where decisions are made based on personal judgment rather than established laws.

Impartial Treatment

Fair and unbiased administration of justice, aimed at ensuring similar treatment for all citizens.

Legal Regime

The system of laws and legal institutions that govern a society.

Impartiality in Law

The principle that laws should be applied fairly and without favoritism.

Acknowledgement of Law's Limitations

Recognition that laws cannot cover every possible case, requiring jurors to seek impartial judgments.

Historical Claim

A statement or argument based on historical events or contexts, particularly in relation to the rule of law in Athens.

Civic Status

The status of being a citizen, which in ancient Athens conferred rights and responsibilities.

Legal Norms

Accepted standards and rules that govern behavior within a society.

Political Legitimacy

Validation of a government based on its adherence to principles such as the rule of law.