Anarchism/Minarchism: Is a Government Part of a Free Country?

by Roderick T. Long (Editor), Tibor R. Machan (Editor)

It is well known that the radical libertarian philosopher Robert Nozick sharply distinguished his vision of the free society from egalitarian liberals such as John Rawls. Less remarked upon is the distinction he drew between the free society governed by a strictly limited government, commonly referred to as 'minarchism', and the society without any government at all - anarchism. In this volume, the editors, Long - an anarchist - and Machan - a minarchist - have brought together a selection of specially commissioned essays from key theorists actively involved in this debate. Each tackles the question of whether or not a government forms a legitimate part of a free society or whether anarchy/minarchy is merely a distinction without a difference.

Genres: Philosophy, Politics, Economics, Nonfiction

208 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of the anarchist essays are interesting: most of the minarchist ones are not

[Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, but a very slow read, as I have had to go back and read the pages allotted for the day to ensure I had a clear understanding of what was being said.

This book did remind me though why I dropped my Poli Sci major in my Freshman year of college! I had moments where my eyes were twisting trying to take everything in.

Best quote of the book..."People root for the Chicago Cubs because they can imagine the Cubs winning the World Series, despite all the evidence to the contrary" Love it!!!

Ummm, must say though, there were some essays that scared the living bejesus out of me!!!