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The Roundup 13
The Seattle City Council recently passed a law that provides legal representation for tenants facing eviction. According to the Seattle Times, advocates claim that the law “is a small investment that will help people stay in their homes and forestall the ruinous, and more expensive, consequences of homelessness.” Whether that claim is true or not…
The Full Context: Eminent Domain
Too often, political debates fail to consider all of the alternatives. But if we are going to make rational and informed decisions, then we must consider all of the alternatives, as well as the pros and cons of each. We must consider the full context. Eminent domain serves as an example. We are often told…
An Interview with Brian Phillips
ByjbpThis was originally posted on Live Oaks on April 15 and April 16, 2009. Comments have not been migrated. Since announcing my virtual candidacy for mayor of Houston, I have patiently waited for the media to interview me on the issues facing the city. Since that is not occurring, I will take it upon myself…
The “Other Guy”
Texans are quick to defend their own property rights, but they are often willing to turn a blind eye when the property rights of the “other guy” are violated. But if they aren’t willing to defend the property rights of the “other guy,” why should the “other guy” want to defend their property rights? For…
The Tragedy of the “Commons,” Part 1
In 1968, Garrett Hardin wrote a highly influential article titled “The Tragedy of the Commons,” in which he examined the problems that inherently arise when property is owned “in common.” Hardin tells the story of a pasture shared by a number of herdsmen: As a rational being, each herdsman seeks to maximize his gain. Explicitly…