What principle is "stare decisis" based on?

"Stare decisis" is a legal principle that emphasizes the obligation of courts to follow previously established judicial rulings when deciding cases with similar facts or legal issues. This doctrine serves to promote legal stability, predictability, and consistency within the legal system. By adhering to prior decisions, courts affirm the authority of established law and help ensure that similar cases are treated alike, which fosters fairness and reduces the possibility of arbitrary judgments.

This principle is foundational in the common law system, allowing individuals and legal professionals to rely on past judicial decisions when navigating current legal disputes. The use of stare decisis enables the law to evolve systematically, as higher courts can overturn or modify earlier rulings as societal norms and understandings change while remaining anchored to established jurisprudence.