Publisher's Synopsis
The Spirit of Laws is a political and legal treatise written by Baron Charles de Secondat, also known as Montesquieu, in 1748. The book is a comprehensive analysis of the different forms of government and their respective laws, as well as an examination of the principles that should guide the creation and implementation of laws.Montesquieu's central thesis is that the most effective form of government is one that is based on a separation of powers, with each branch of government having its own distinct powers and responsibilities. He argues that this separation of powers is essential for preventing tyranny and ensuring that the rights of citizens are protected.The book also explores the different factors that contribute to the formation of laws, including climate, geography, religion, and culture. Montesquieu argues that these factors shape the customs and habits of a society, which in turn influence the laws that are created and enforced.Throughout the book, Montesquieu draws on examples from history and from different societies around the world to illustrate his points. He also engages with the ideas of other political thinkers, including John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.Overall, The Spirit of Laws is a seminal work in the history of political philosophy, and its ideas have had a lasting impact on the development of democratic institutions and the rule of law.Of Luxury. Luxury is ever in proportion to the inequality of fortunes. If the riches of a state are equally divided there will be no luxury; for it is founded merely on the conveniences acquired by the labour of others.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.
