Kierkegaardian Ethics and the Rule of Law

Abstract We approach law with deep ambivalence. On the one hand, we take immense pride in living under rule of law. other often catch ourselves lamenting existence When lament law, are not just saying that there is too much it. complaining about amount Rather, our complaint goes to very nature itself. complain its rules constraining, generality ignores particularity each situation, coercive force rides roughshod over autonomy, and list on. However, notwithstanding frustration it want get rid This paper seeks express explain conflicting sentiments – why sometimes view as a monumental moral achievement so frustrated The answer, this will argue, lies norms. value limit traceable Kierkegaard helps us see that. argue ambivalence mirrors Kierkegaard’s ethics.