What does the term "rule of law" mean?

The term "rule of law" signifies that no one is above the law, meaning everyone, including individuals, government officials, and entities, must adhere to the same set of laws. This principle ensures that laws are applied equally and fairly, promoting accountability and justice in society. It upholds the idea that laws govern a nation, rather than arbitrary decisions made by individual leaders or government bodies.

In contrast to the other choices, which suggest that only specific groups—like the government, judges, or citizens—are bound by the law, the rule of law is fundamentally about universality and equality in legal obligations. It is essential for maintaining order and protecting the rights of all individuals within a community. This foundational concept is critical for democracy and the functioning of a just legal system.