A set of rules that people follow prevent them from doing whatever their impulse tempts them. It is what keeps harmony in their environment; therefore, harsh punishments are given to those who violate it.
Rules are applied to everyone, so the reason why they are even made could be fulfilled: to create a harmonious and fair society. A group of people is even assigned to enforce the rule, so no one cheats their way around it.
The main goal for the creation of the rule is to maintain conductivity and keep things the way they are. This applies equally to everyone; whether they are a tyrant or a tyrannical leader, this is the reason why rules are created and enforced.
In a place where rules are absolute, where harsh punishments are delivered to those who commit a minor offense, the situation, more often than not, is unruly as any other place that doesn't have its rules enforced. In places like this, rules are made in favor of the enforcer and the one in authority.
