The Law

'The Law' is a classic work written by the French political economist and philosopher Frédéric Bastiat. Originally published in 1850, the book is a concise and powerful exploration of the concept of law and its proper role in society. Bastiat's main argument revolves around the idea that the purpose of law is to protect individual rights and property, rather than being an instrument for legal plunder or the redistribution of wealth. In 'The Law,' Bastiat discusses the fundamental principles of a just and free society, emphasizing the importance of limited government intervention and the protection of individual liberties. He criticizes various forms of legal plunder, such as tariffs, subsidies, and progressive taxation, which he views as violations of the natural rights of individuals. The book is known for its clarity of thought, persuasive reasoning, and its defense of the principles of classical liberalism.