Two common assumptions are made about the rule of law: that authoritarianism and rule of law are mutually incompatible, and that free markets and rule of law must tip authoritarian societies in a liberal direction. This book shows both assumptions are wrong. Jothie Rajah demonstrates how Singapore has created that most improbable coupling – the authoritarian rule of law. Through a close and engaging analysis of several key moments in Singapore’s history, Authoritarian Rule of Law shows how prosperity, public discourse, and a rigorous observance of legal procedure enable a reconfigured rule of law that is liberal in form but illiberal in content. Rajah alerts us to ways institutions and processes at the bedrock of rule of law and liberal democracy become tools to constrain dissenting citizens while protecting those in political power, even as the national and international legitimacy of the state is secured. With China seeing in Singapore a model for its own development, as do any number of regimes that hope to replicate Singapore’s economic success and compliant citizenry, this book overturns conventional understandings of law and politics. This volume reveals a configuration of law, power, and legitimacy that may have far-reaching consequences for theory and politics worldwide.