Classical Liberalism and the Rule of Law
This course will examine the indispensable role of the Rule of Law in free societies. We will first explore the the nature of free societies as described by classical-liberal theory, notably in the writings of Friedrich Hayek. We will also contrast free societies with authoritarian or collectivist ones, which rule by commands. We will then trace the development of the Rule of Law in Anglo-American history, from the earliest emergence of the common law to the ratification of the American Constitution. Finally, we will define the Rule of Law and contrast its operation with that of the modern administrative state.