Rule of Law: a Fundamental Concept Without a Coherent Meaning

Abstract

The concept “rule of law” is used worldwide. However, the meaning of the concept varies, depending on several factors such as geography and history. This article provides a brief overview of how the concept is understood in the Swedish and Chinese legal contexts, by defining its different characteristics. The research confirms that the concept, which originates from the West, is used and perceived quite differently in the two countries. In fact, the use of different terminology, law-state thinking and socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics, confirm the differences in understanding.