Republicanism Law and Legal Definition
Republicanism is the imaginary or visionary theorization of governing a nation as a republic. It refers to a form of government where the head of state is appointed for a specific period by means of elections. These leaders, rather than a select aristocracy make laws for the benefit of the entire republic. The exact meaning of republicanism varies depending on the cultural and historical context. However, in an ideal republic, head of the state are selected from among the working people; they serve the republic for a defined period, and then return to their work. The key conceptions of republicanism includes the importance of civic virtue, the benefits of universal political participation, the dangers of corruption, the necessity of separate powers and a healthy attitude for the rule of law.
The equality of the rights of citizens is a principle of republicanism. Every republican government is in duty bound to protect all its citizens in the enjoyment of this principle, if within its power. The duty was originally assumed by the States, and it still remains there.[ South & N. A. R. Co. v. Morris, 65 Ala. 193 (Ala. 1880)].
