Thomas More's Legacy and Rule by Law

Thomas More is recognized for his unwavering commitment to rule by law, as he firmly believed that the law must be upheld even when faced with moral dilemmas. His background as the son of a lawyer and his eventual role as England's chief legal officer shaped his conviction that traditions and legal frameworks are vital to justice. More famously expressed this philosophy in a dialogue from Robert Bolt's play, A Man for All Seasons, where he argued against cutting laws for the sake of pursuing wrongdoers, asserting that without laws, one cannot find refuge when chaos ensues. His works following his resignation from the court further emphasized the importance of legal traditions, showcasing his role as a martyr for justice and legal integrity.