The Law

""The Law"" is a political and philosophical treatise written by French economist and politician, Frederic Bastiat. The book argues that the proper role of government is to protect individual rights and liberties, such as property rights, rather than to provide for the collective welfare of society. Bastiat posits that when the government oversteps its bounds and attempts to redistribute wealth or regulate the economy, it violates the natural order of things and ultimately harms society as a whole. The book is divided into several sections, each exploring different aspects of the relationship between government and the individual. Bastiat's arguments are often presented in the form of parables and allegories, making the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds. ""The Law"" is considered a classic of libertarian and conservative political thought, and has influenced thinkers and policymakers around the world.And, in all sincerity, can anything more than the absence of plunder be required of the law? Can the law -- which necessarily requires the use of force -- rationally be used for anything except protecting the rights of everyone? I defy anyone to extend it beyond this purpose without perverting it and, consequently, turning might against right.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.