Aren't all laws predicated on the belief that they can change human nature?
No, the purpose of the law is to resolve conflicts, and when successful it does so in ways that are relatively easy to enforce. It has nothing to do with changing people's values, merely prohibiting certain clearly defined behaviors.
But can't you agree that human nature is very malleable and has, throughout history, been slowly channeled (by accident or by intent) into activities more constructive and less destructive when some great insight has explained the difference between the two paths.
This is exactly what I don't agree with. While people are much less personally violent today than in, say, the Middle Ages - which is no small accomplishment - I see no reason whatsoever to believe that most people's behavior will ever be driven by anything other than self interest. I mean, sure, it would be nice, but you have not suggested any mechanisms by which this can be achieved. That's because there aren't any.
And no, I'm not an anarchist; as expressed in my previous writings, I am generally progressive, favor strong government, high taxes, and a robust social safety net implemented through minimally intrusive means. I think it's kind of funny how people try to pigeonhole my opinions and get it wildly wrong every time.
no subject
No, the purpose of the law is to resolve conflicts, and when successful it does so in ways that are relatively easy to enforce. It has nothing to do with changing people's values, merely prohibiting certain clearly defined behaviors.
But can't you agree that human nature is very malleable and has, throughout history, been slowly channeled (by accident or by intent) into activities more constructive and less destructive when some great insight has explained the difference between the two paths.
This is exactly what I don't agree with. While people are much less personally violent today than in, say, the Middle Ages - which is no small accomplishment - I see no reason whatsoever to believe that most people's behavior will ever be driven by anything other than self interest. I mean, sure, it would be nice, but you have not suggested any mechanisms by which this can be achieved. That's because there aren't any.
And no, I'm not an anarchist; as expressed in my previous writings, I am generally progressive, favor strong government, high taxes, and a robust social safety net implemented through minimally intrusive means. I think it's kind of funny how people try to pigeonhole my opinions and get it wildly wrong every time.