Which principle of democracy ensures that no one is above the law?

The principle that ensures that no one is above the law is known as the Rule of Law. This concept is fundamental in a democratic society, as it establishes that laws apply equally to all individuals, regardless of their status, position, or power. It guarantees that every citizen, including government officials, is subject to the law, which serves to protect individuals from arbitrary governance and abuse of power.

The Rule of Law promotes fairness and accountability within the legal system, allowing for justice to be administered impartially. This principle is essential for maintaining public trust in legal institutions and promotes a stable society where individuals feel secure in their rights and responsibilities.

In contrast, while checks and balances, separation of powers, and popular sovereignty are important democratic principles, they focus on different aspects of governance. Checks and balances refer to the mechanisms in place to ensure that no branch of government oversteps its authority. Separation of powers delineates the different responsibilities of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, ensuring that power is distributed rather than concentrated. Popular sovereignty emphasizes the authority of the people in governing themselves. Each of these principles contributes to democracy but does not specifically address the idea of everyone being subject to the law as the Rule of Law does.