Rule of law was touted by the ancient Greeks, and the framers liked it as well. Sozhenitsyn is one modern figure who recognized the tyranny of law.
There is only one thing that reduces a tyranny: something higher.
Sigh.
Where is Calvin when you really need him?
The theologically anemic state of American Protestantism, with men like James Dobson at its helm, is a big part of the problem.