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His domestic and foreign initiatives – ranging from the attempted coup in the past to current moves and statements – undermine not only national and global law. The implications are broader.

These actions threaten the core idea of civilization itself.

A moral purpose of any advanced culture is to forestall the stronger from attacking and exploiting the weaker. Otherwise, we risk being trapped in a brutish war where survival of the strongest prevails.

This concept lies at the center of the nation's founding texts. It is equally the heart of the global system established after WWII supported by the America, built on multilateralism, democracy, human rights, and the supremacy of law.

However, it is a fragile ideal, often broken by those who would exploit their power. Upholding it necessitates that the those in charge have a sense of duty to avoid seeking immediate gains, and that the rest of us demand responsibility should they falter.

Unfettered might does not equal right. It results in instability, chaos, and war.

Whenever individuals, companies, or nations that are advantaged target and use those that are less so, the framework of society frays. If such aggression are left unchecked, the structure collapses. If not stopped, the world can descend into disorder and conflict. History provides ample precedent.

We now inhabit a global community marked by extreme inequality. Political and economic power are more concentrated than in modern history. This creates conditions for the elite to take advantage of the weaker because they perceive themselves as above the law.

The resources of certain ultra-wealthy individuals is almost beyond comprehension. The reach of major corporations in technology, energy, and aerospace spans numerous countries. Advanced technology is likely to further concentrate resources and influence even more. The military might of the world's largest nations is without parallel in recorded history.

Empowered by a compliant faction and an accommodating high court, the highest office has been made into the most dominant and unchecked instrument of the state in recent memory.

Consider this confluence and you perceive the danger.

A direct line links past lawless actions to current threats. Each were founded upon the hubris of absolute power.

You see parallel dynamics in other global contexts: in territorial invasions, in strategic threats, and in the rampant monopolization by powerful corporate entities.

However, strength without restraint does not create right. It produces instability, revolution, and bloodshed.

The lessons of the past reveal that laws and norms to limit the powerful also protect them. If these guardrails are removed, their relentless pursuit for increased control and resources eventually cause their collapse – along with their enterprises, countries, or domains. And pave the way for international catastrophe.

Such lawlessness will plague America and the global community – and indeed a rules-based order – for years to come.