Why indeed, when so many politicians (the Clintons, the entire Illinois "political machine", numerous Senators and Congressmen from both parties - who actually construct the laws that they often ignore), celebrities, executives and citizens in general seem oblivious to the concept?

A government of law is distinguished from the "rule of man" (where a single person or a select group of persons can set or alter the rules of conduct at their discretion, i.e. monarchies, tyrannies or theocracies). All are equal in the eyes of the law, which is supreme over the acts of the government and the people.

"Adherence to the rule of law is what guides us in our everyday social and legal interactions, prevents anarchy, and holds us together as a people" (Frens).

One has only to review the long list of troubled nations in the world to understand that concept. The rule of law is one of the underpinnings of Western civilization and has provided historic stabilization in those countries that adhere to the principle.

A moral code is a must for any society to remain stabilized and participatory government is the means for determining the guidelines under which its citizens will live. This moral code is a product of discussion and agreement amongst its citizens (solidified by our political leaders in this representative republic). Once shaped into law, it needs to be followed. For those who disagree with stated principles, the process offers the opportunity to change the rules if the majority agrees to the need.

Consider the multitude of illegal offenses committed by these previously-mentioned politicians, executives and celebrities where no form of punishment has been administered. Does such avoidance encourage additional illicit behavior?

I have heard considerable outrage professed by members of the public against these transgressions. And yet, politicians are re-elected or appointed to positions of greater authority, celebrities (and some politicians) are adored and executives are rewarded for lack of competence and/or ethics.

Personally, I like the term, "Wrong". It will not stand by itself without explanation and justification and there will always be those who revile the user for imposing his or her "moral values" upon others. There is no imposition, however, simply a stating of personal opinion.

Now, if enough individuals combine to decide that something is "wrong" and convince their representatives to codify their interpretations into law, then indeed there is imposition involved.

I believe that there are many who subvert the rule of law by refusing to support the legal, ethical and moral principles that have been codified into the laws of America and that there are some who further damage our society through their antipathy toward selected ethical and philosophical traditions that bind us as a nation and as a people. Again, if someone feels that change is imperative, the system allows changes to be made if one works within its boundaries. The will of the majority provides the mortar binding together the building blocks of our nation.

Support the rule of law and demand that it be practiced and enforced. If you disagree with the rules, work within the system in a moral and ethical manner to effect changes, or risk further degeneration and potential destruction of our country

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