Exploring the Impact of Excessive Laws on Rule of Law

In their latest work, Justice Neil Gorsuch and former clerk Janie Nitze explore the detrimental effects of excessive legislation on the rule of law in America. They argue that the proliferation of laws has led to arbitrary governance, undermining the foundational principle that the law should govern all individuals and institutions equally. Gorsuch and Nitze emphasize that the demand for more laws, often at the expense of local solutions, has created a complex legal landscape that is difficult for citizens to navigate. The authors present a series of meticulously researched stories, enriched with personal interviews, to illustrate the human toll of this legal inflation. They contend that while society celebrates the concept of "law’s empire," the reality is that an overabundance of laws can erode the very values that underpin the rule of law. This situation has been exacerbated by a centralization of government that struggles to manage its extensive regulatory framework, leaving citizens feeling disillusioned and powerless. As trust in institutions reaches record lows, Gorsuch and Nitze highlight a growing frustration among citizens across the political spectrum. They argue that the current legal environment fosters a sense of stagnation, where changes in leadership do not translate into meaningful reforms. Despite these challenges, the authors maintain a hopeful outlook, expressing faith in the resilience of the American people and their capacity to advocate for a more effective legal system. In summary, "Over Ruled" serves as a critical examination of the consequences of too much law, urging a reevaluation of how legal frameworks are constructed and implemented in order to restore accountability and trust in governance.