Vices Are Not Crimes: A Vindication - Hardcover

by Lysander Spooner (Author)

""Vices Are Not Crimes: A Vindication"" is a book written by Lysander Spooner, an American individualist anarchist and abolitionist. The book is a philosophical treatise that argues that vices, such as gambling, drug use, and prostitution, should not be considered crimes. Spooner contends that individuals have the right to engage in these activities without interference from the government, as long as they do not harm others. He argues that the government's attempts to regulate and punish these vices are a violation of individual liberty and that such laws are often arbitrary and unjust. Spooner also critiques the notion of ""victimless crimes"" and argues that the state has no legitimate authority to regulate morality. The book is a classic of libertarian thought and has been influential in shaping debates around individual freedom and the role of government in society.In the midst of this endless variety of opinion, what man, or what body of men, has the right to say, in regard to any particular action, or course of action, ""we have tried this experiment, and determined every question involved in it? We have determined it, not only for ourselves, but for all others? And, as to all those who are weaker than we, we will coerce them to act in obedience to our conclusions? We will suffer no further experiment or inquiry by any one, and, consequently, no further acquisition of knowledge by anybody?""This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.