Philosophy and Methodology

Presented at the 2008 Economics and Government Seminar at the University of Waterloo, sponsored by the Institute for Liberal Studies.

The title of G.A. Cohen's remarkable book suggests an obvious question. Cohen wishes to rescue justice and equality; but from whom or what are these in danger? Cohen's target will strike many readers as surprising: 

Lest I be accused of writing an unduly negative review, I shall conclude by recommending his discussion of the Progressives and the New Deal (pp. 293ff.) If Krannawitter were to expand these remarks, he would write a valuable book.

Economists of this century of the broadest vision and the keenest insight — men such as Ludwig von Mises, Frank H. Knight, and F.A.

"Those of libertarian inclinations tend not to hold it unfair for those with superior talents to benefit from them."

"The egalitarian world would necessarily be a world of horror fiction — a world of faceless and identical creatures, devoid of all individuality, variety, or special creativity."

Even zero inflation is too much when an economy is experiencing overall improvements in productivity. Sound policy in that case calls for deflation at minus the rate of productivity growth.

As I've said many times, the real problem is not the person; it is the institution.

Recorded at the Mises Institute Supporters Summit, 31 October 2008; Auburn, Alabama.

Recorded at the Mises Institute Supporters Summit, 31 October 2008; Auburn, Alabama. Includes an introduction by Tom Woods.