Which of the following is NOT a key principle of the rule of law?

The principle that the government can act without legal restraint is not a key tenet of the rule of law. In fact, the rule of law is fundamentally about restricting governmental power and ensuring that all actions taken by the government are bound by law. It emphasizes that everyone, including government entities and officials, is subject to the law, which upholds accountability and prevents arbitrary decisions.

Key components of the rule of law, such as the independence of the courts, equal application of the law, and the transparent enactment of laws, ensure that individuals can trust in a legal system that operates fairly and impartially. These principles serve to protect citizens' rights and maintain order within society, contrasting sharply with the idea that the government can operate without any legal limits.