Freedom and Benevolence Go Hand In Hand
John Stossel writes in his column today:
Individual freedom, with minimal government, made it possible for masses of people to cooperate for mutual advantage. As a result, society could be rich and peaceful.As the great economist Ludwig von Mises wrote, "What makes friendly relations between human beings possible is the higher productivity of the division of labor. . . . A preeminent common interest, the preservation and further intensification of social cooperation, becomes paramount and obliterates all essential collisions."
Comments (4)
It appears like a paradox at first, but it makes perfect sense. Mutual self-interest produces the "common good", and it ends up that collectivism produces narcissism.
Published: July 15, 2007 7:53 PM
Dear Justin,
Thank you for bringing this article by John Stossel to my attention. I fowarded it to my 19 year old daughter who is being influenced by the electioneering by politicians.
It is wonderful that there are some sane voices out there and John Stossel is an individual that deserves credit for his quality journalism.
With warm regards,
Bruce Koerber
Published: July 15, 2007 8:54 PM
I hope your daughter appreciates the article, Bruce. I find that most young people consider Stossel to be a dweeb, and will usually dismiss anything he says.
Published: July 18, 2007 12:03 AM
"It appears like a paradox at first, but it makes perfect sense." Yeah ! it does make sense .
Published: September 12, 2007 2:21 AM