GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentMedium
A citizen is called for jury duty in a criminal case. During the trial, the judge instructs the jury to base their decision solely on the evidence presented in court and the applicable laws, disregarding any personal biases or external information. This instruction directly upholds the principle of:
- AChecks and Balances
- BDue Process
- CRule of Law
- DPopular Sovereignty
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Rule of Law
The instruction for a jury to base its decision strictly on evidence and law, rather than personal feelings or external factors, is a fundamental aspect of the rule of law, ensuring that justice is administered impartially and consistently.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Checks and balances involve separate government branches limiting each other's power, which is not the focus of a jury instruction.
- B. Due process ensures fair treatment through the judicial system, but the specific instruction to follow laws and evidence directly relates to the overarching principle of the rule of law.
- D. Popular sovereignty is about the people being the source of government power, not the conduct of a trial.
Rule of Law
A principle that all persons, institutions, and entities are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated, and that are consistent with international human rights principles.
- No one is above the law, including government officials.
- Laws are applied equally and fairly to all.
- Ensures predictable and just governance.
Memory trick: The RULE of LAW means everyone follows the RULES.