Rule of Law & Equality

What is the rule of law compared to in the analogy provided?

The rule of law is compared to the rules and referees in a game, which ensure fairness and order for all players and coaches.

Why are rules important in a game, and how does this relate to society?

Rules ensure fair and consistent treatment in games, just like laws do in society to prevent chaos and ensure justice.

What does the rule of law ensure in a democracy?

It ensures that all people—regardless of status, wealth, or power—are equal before the law.

What values does the rule of law uphold in a society?

Fairness, justice, stability, clearly defined rights and responsibilities, and consistent law enforcement.

Why was the rule of law important to the framers of the U.S. Constitution?

They wanted to avoid the instability of monarchy and prevent government decisions based on unpredictable or unfair authority.

What kind of government did the framers want to avoid?

A monarchy where rulers could impose taxes and make decisions without consent, and a democracy driven by mob rule.

How does the Constitution uphold the rule of law?

It creates a system where laws are made, enforced, and reviewed to secure justice, liberty, and peace.

What is the Supremacy Clause?

It declares the Constitution and federal laws as the supreme law of the land, above state laws.

How do separation of powers and checks and balances support the rule of law?

They prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful and ensure balanced lawmaking, enforcement, and interpretation.

What constitutional protections support individual rights under the rule of law?

The Bill of Rights, the Fifth Amendment, and the 14th Amendment ensure due process and equal protection under the law.

What might society look like without the rule of law?

It would be chaotic and unstable, with unfair and unpredictable governance.

Why does the rule of law matter to you today?

It protects your rights, ensures fair treatment, and keeps society stable and just for everyone.

What is the principle of equality in the U.S. government?

It means all people, regardless of differences, should be treated as equals.

What are the three types of equality?

1) Equality in fundamental human rights,
2) Equality before the law,
3) Equality of citizenship.

What does equality in fundamental human rights mean?

That all individuals are entitled to the same basic human rights.

What does equality before the law mean?

That everyone is guaranteed equal treatment under the law by the Constitution.

What does equality of citizenship mean?

That all citizens have the same status and rights.

Did the framers believe everyone is the same in personal qualities?

No, they acknowledged individual differences but believed all are created equal and deserve equal treatment.

What was the role of government, according to the framers, in terms of equality?

To ensure everyone is treated equally under the law.

What kind of society did the framers come from?

One ruled by a king where people were treated unequally based on family, wealth, or status.

What influenced the framers’ views on equality?

Enlightenment ideas, especially the belief in inherent equality.

Where did the framers enshrine the principle of equality?

In the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

How did the framers make room for future progress toward equality?

By including an amendment process in the Constitution.

Why was the 14th Amendment added?

Because states weren’t treating all citizens equally or providing due process.

What does the 14th Amendment guarantee today?

Equal protection for all, regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, ability, or sexual orientation.

What are two landmark Supreme Court cases that used the 14th Amendment to expand equality?

Brown v. Board of Education and Obergefell v. Hodges.

Why should equality matter to you?

Because it ensures fair treatment, protection of rights, and a just society for everyone.

What might society look like without equality?

It would be unjust, discriminatory, and unequal in treatment and opportunities.