Reflections on the ethical legitimacy of the rule of law

Abstract

The article responds to the need to reflect on the importance of the legitimacy of the rule of law. The moral understanding on which this legitimacy is based clamours for the development of public ethics in the current context of cultural pluralism, ensuring the basic needs and values that enable peaceful coexistence. Thus, the duty of forming citizens corresponds to appropriate public authorities who must provide training that respects differences, that recognizes all members of society and enables them to be moral subjects. Moreover it also seeks to warn about the risks that such legitimacy runs when faced with political strategies that defend the use of violent procedures to safeguard national security. It reveals the ideological background behind the argument justifying the speeches of politicians who are quoted. All this reinforces our belief in the need for adequate formation of citizens.