bam@sdchema.UUCP (Bret Marquis) (04/11/85)
A rather heated debate this weekend brought up the topic of the likely hood of a feudal state of affairs forming if the Libertarian view of an anarchistic society was realized. The contention was that the only way to stop roving bands of marauders from wreaking havoc in a given area and becoming the power in that area would be for the 'citizens' to form private armies for the protection of their properties. It would seem likely that those harassed by the gangs would tend to join forces with those that had successfully defended themselves from attack. Or pay those with existing armies for protection. The position of 'protector' would be a tempting one to abuse. Human nature being what it is, abuse is not unlikely. None of this has been well thought out, but the potential for problems would seem great. Nor does it seem that individual self defense would be sufficient. Rothbard, in "For a New Liberty", talks at length on economics but defense doesn't seem to be covered adequately for real world conditions. Some of the Libertarian concepts are quite fascinating and I find myself quite drawn to *some* of the ideas put forth but there do seem to be rather large gaps in the philosophy... Ideas? Or possibly pointers to additional reading would be helpful.. -- Bret Marquis (sdcsvax,ihnp4)!bang!bam Bang World Communication Center - San Diego.