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Loading... The Constitution of Liberty (original 1960; edition 1978)by F. A. Hayek
Work InformationThe Constitution of Liberty by F. A. Hayek (1960)
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Sign up for LibraryThing to find out whether you'll like this book. No current Talk conversations about this book. A detailed and scholarly argument for putting limits on the power of the state and government machinery, in order to preserve liberty. Tends to be a little one-sided sometimes, exaggerating the negative effects of state policies to reduce inequalities in society. However, his warning that putting ends before principles (enacting laws tailored to specific sections of the population, for instance, instead of one law for all) often leads to totalitarianism, is well taken and is very relevant in the present political context the world over. The first part is terrific and mostly explains the important principles of freedom. The second part has some great insights but can be very dry. In the third part he has some good points but some terrible ideas. Sometimes it was hard to tell if he was actually proposing his ideas or just giving a bad example of something that would have a lot of negative drawbacks. Many times it just seemed to be the latter, but not all the time. no reviews | add a review
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Originally published in 1960, The Constitution of Liberty delineates and defends the principles of a free society and traces the origin, rise, and decline of the rule of law. Casting a skeptical eye on the growth of the welfare state, Hayek examines the challenges to freedom posed by an ever expanding government as well as its corrosive effect on the creation, preservation, and utilization of knowledge. In distinction to those who confidently call for the state to play a greater role in society, Hayek puts forward a nuanced argument for prudence. Guided by this quality, he elegantly demonstrates that a free market system in a democratic polity--under the rule of law and with strong constitutional protections of individual rights--represents the best chance for the continuing existence of liberty. Striking a balance between skepticism and hope, Hayek's profound insights remain strikingly vital half a century on. This definitive edition of The Constitution of Liberty will give a new generation the opportunity to learn from Hayek's enduring wisdom. No library descriptions found. |
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Google Books — Loading... GenresMelvil Decimal System (DDC)320.1Social sciences Political Science Political Science The StateLC ClassificationRatingAverage:
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Some aspects are dated when seen in the backdrop the threat automation presents ; but nevertheless this is truly great body of work . ( )