The idea that law is applied strictly based on written rules with little personal judgment.

• A. Legal realism
• B. Legal formalism
• C. Punishment
• D. Deterrence

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that law is applied strictly from written rules with little personal judgment. Legal formalism holds that judges should derive outcomes by logically applying statutes and precedents, treating the law as a closed, rule-bound system where the text guides decision making with minimal discretion. This is why it fits best: the description emphasizes the letter of the law and mechanical application, aiming for predictability and consistency rather than weighing policy or social factors. In contrast, legal realism argues that decisions are influenced by judges’ experiences and real-world factors, not just the text. Punishment and deterrence refer to outcomes or goals within the justice system, not to the method by which law is applied.