The Rule of Law and Human Dignity: Reexamining Fuller’s Canons

The Hague Journal on the Rule of Law, Forthcoming

Georgetown Public Law Research Paper No. 10-29

17 Pages Posted: 25 May 2010

See all articles by David Luban

David Luban

Georgetown University Law Center

Date Written: May 24, 2010

Abstract

Lon Fuller offered an analysis of the rule of law in the form of eight ‘canons’ of lawmaking. He argued (1) that these canons constitute a ‘procedural natural law’, as distinct from traditional ‘substantive’ natural law; but also (2) that lawmaking conforming to the canons will enhance human dignity - a ‘substantive’ result. This paper argues the following points: first, that Fuller mischaracterized his eight canons, which are substantive rather than procedural; second, that there is an important sense in which they enhance human dignity; third, that they fail to enhance human dignity to the fullest extent because they understand it in an overly libertarian fashion; and fourth, that Fuller’s overall approach to jurisprudence, in which the standpoint of practicing lawyers (not judges, legislators, or citizens) predominates, offers important insights into achieving congruence between the law ‘in books’ and law’s enforcement. However, to succeed such an account must emphasize the lawyer’s counseling role and access to legal services, which Fuller neglects.

Keywords: Rule of Law, Practice of Law, Dignity

JEL Classification: K00, K40

Suggested Citation

Luban, David, The Rule of Law and Human Dignity: Reexamining Fuller’s Canons (May 24, 2010). The Hague Journal on the Rule of Law, Forthcoming, Georgetown Public Law Research Paper No. 10-29, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1615010

David Luban (Contact Author)

Georgetown University Law Center ( email )

600 New Jersey Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
United States

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