The Right to Earn a Living

May 1, 2010
Sandefur (principal attorney, Pacific Legal Fdn.) carefully traces the evolution of individual economic freedom in U.S. legal and economic history. Americans have historically enjoyed the right to choose how to earn a living without excessive government interference, much as they enjoy a right to free speech or a right to religious self-determination. However, as Sandefur meticulously traces it, while the right to free speech is kept sacrosanct, individual economic freedoms have been severely eroded by the courts, largely starting in the second half of the 19th century. This book, written in a style of case law expositions and constitutional discussions, draws up a deep and broad rationale for why U.S. courts should take a stronger stance in favor of economic liberties. From the contracts clause to regulatory takings, Sandefur methodically examines the history of philosophical attitudes and court precedents in regard to the right to earn a living, as he attempts to restore respect for what he considers a crucial but mistreated economic right. VERDICT The book may not be suited for a beginning economics student because of its extensive references to case law, but anyone with interest in law and economics or in the philosophy of American political economy will benefit from Sandefur's thorough legal investigation.Jekabs Bikis, Dallas Baptist Univ., TX

Copyright 2010 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.