Between Capitalism and the State
Between Capitalism and the State is a 1979 book by the American economist and philosopher Albert Jay Nock, in which he presents a critical examination of the relationship between capitalism and the state.
The book is considered a classic of libertarian thought and has been widely read and influential in the development of libertarianism.
Nock's central argument is that capitalism and the state are fundamentally incompatible, and that the state's attempts to regulate and control economic activity are inherently destructive of individual freedom and prosperity.
He argues that the state's primary function is to protect individual rights and property, and that it should be limited to this function in order to prevent the concentration of power and the erosion of individual freedom.
Nock also critiques the idea of social welfare and the concept of the "social contract," arguing that these ideas are based on a flawed understanding of human nature and the proper role of government.
He advocates for a laissez-faire approach to economics, in which individuals are free to pursue their own interests and goals without interference from the state.
Adam Smith wrote, "The evident shrewdness of this plan, which the author of the Wealth of Nations often praises, has deluded the great majority of the people into believing that the state is necessary to the prosperity of the nation and that the nation's wealth is the result of the state's efforts.
- The book is a critique of the idea that the state is necessary to protect individual rights and property.
- Nock argues that the state's primary function is to protect individual rights and property, and that it should be limited to this function in order to prevent the concentration of power and the erosion of individual freedom.
Between Capitalism and the State remains a widely-read and influential work in libertarian thought, and its ideas continue to be relevant today.
Author's resume: This book offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking critique of the relationship between capitalism and the state, and its ideas continue to influence libertarian thought and policy.