Law and order is the name given to the belief that everyone in a given society should abide by the rules and regulations governing behavior in that society. This philosophy also calls for a strict interpretation of the rules, and holds that those who break them should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
In the 21st century, the term "law and order" evolved to address terrorism and related issues in addition to conventional crime.
In its new and traditional contexts in the United States, law and order has been criticized by those who contend that its implementation is linked to racism, leads to the abuse of power, and infringes on civil rights.
Nevertheless, a number of American politicians have publicly espoused this set of beliefs. Those who have done so include U.S. presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan. As a candidate, President Donald Trump also voiced his support for law and order.