Legal System

Philosopher Elizabeth Anscombe questioned the legitimacy of the state, but left open a possible justification for its existence. Dr. David Gordon examines Anscombe’s argument and finds it interesting but wanting.

Government not only has a monopoly on law enforcement and “justice,” but it also protects that monopoly against anyone who might seek justice outside the purview of the state. 

Should we regard morality as objective or subjective? In today‘s Friday Philosophy, Dr. David Gordon looks at the writings of Timothy Williamson, who argues that we can see morality in an objective light. On that point, he would agree with Murray Rothbard.

Long a constitutional monarchy with ties to Great Britain, many in Jamaica are looking to end the old relationship and become a republic. But is this movement simply a reaction to anti-colonialism, and what kind of constitution would the new republic create? So far, no answers.

Long a constitutional monarchy with ties to Great Britain, many in Jamaica are looking to end the old relationship and become a republic. But is this movement simply a reaction to anti-colonialism, and what kind of constitution would the new republic create? So far, no answers.

Understanding any era of history requires the ability to view complex things. However, people often employ simple narratives as their historical guides, which leads to wrong conclusions. The pre-war history of the American South is one that is much more complex than the narratives imply.

Understanding any era of history requires the ability to view complex things. 

A government that rules by imposing politically-oriented statutes upon its citizens cannot lay claim to governing by “rule of law.” Hayek understood that claiming “legality” to anything the state does is a sure road to tyranny.

A government that rules by imposing politically-oriented statutes upon its citizens cannot lay claim to governing by “rule of law.” Hayek understood that claiming “legality” to anything the state does is a sure road to tyranny.

Contrary to popular myth, every Republican president since and including Herbert Hoover has increased the federal government's size, scope, or power. Over the last one hundred years, of the five presidents who presided over the largest domestic spending increases, four were Republicans.