Laws and Statutes are not Synonymous

Have you ever heard someone ask why certain behavior is illegal and heard the answer “because it is?” Well, this speech may help break that bit of circular reasoning. It’s helpful for those of us without much formal education, but find ourselves drawn to investigate philosophies which undergird American society. The speaker, Donald J. Boudreaux, defines what a codified law should be—and should not be—in a society which values freedom.

Most helpful definition for ‘law’: "any evolved social constraint on behavior," with 'evolved' being the key qualifier. Also, I liked his theory of why freedom evolved in the West and not in other civilizations.

"Law comes from the hearts and minds of the people."

(Thanks to one of Instapundit’s guests)

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