The absence of the rule of law in government will bring about ...

1. Analyze the question The question asks what happens when there is no rule of law. The rule of law means everyone, including government officials, is subject to the law, and no one is above it. Laws are applied fairly, and citizens' rights are protected by independent courts.

2. Explain the concept Dicey's principles of the rule of law include:

• Supremacy of the law over arbitrary power
• Equality of all before the law
• Protection of individual rights through the courts

If these principles are missing, those in power can act arbitrarily, and nothing restrains them from violating citizens' rights.

3. Evaluate the options

• A. Human rights abuse: Without the rule of law, there is no legal check on authority. Arrests without trial, detention without charge, seizure of property and suppression of speech become possible. This is the most direct and immediate consequence.
• B. Political apathy: This can result from many things, such as disillusionment or rigged elections. It is not the direct result of lawlessness.
• C. Corrupt practices: Corruption can increase when the rule of law is weak, but it is an indirect effect, and it can also exist where laws are present but poorly enforced.
• D. Treasonable offences: These are crimes defined by law. Treason is not a consequence of the absence of the rule of law.

4. Answer The most direct consequence is human rights abuse, so the answer is A.

5. Exam tip When you see "rule of law," link it with protection of rights, equality before the law and limits on arbitrary power. If it is absent, think arbitrariness, dictatorship and human rights violations.