This lecture explores the meaning and value of legal constitutionalism by situating it in the context of other fundamental legal ideals. Thus we will consider: What, in essence, is the Rule of Law? What is required to have objective law? And what role does a constitution properly play if a society is to enjoy these?

Our answer will elaborate on the core of what a proper constitution is and does. We will also comment on the historical evolution of the idea of constitutions and on the status of that idea today: What are the threats greatestintellectual as well as more political practicallyto proper constitutional governance?

A version of this talk was also delivered at OCON 2015