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I agree that some of the examples GP gave don't quite fit, but their insight about consumer protection laws is key. Say a consumer protection law that prohibit
by paulgb 6y ago
I agree that some of the examples GP gave don't quite fit, but their insight about consumer protection laws is key.
Say a consumer protection law that prohibits an appliance company from selling me a cheap heater that isn't up to code. That law restricts the appliance company's freedom, but it also restricts my freedom to contract with the appliance company. The law is restricting my freedom to protect me.
(Personally, I'm fond of Matt Levine's "stupid investment license" proposal, but I would not be in favor of an "unsafe heater" license)
- colordrops 6y agoBut they aren't restricting your freedom. They would be restricting your freedom if some people could buy those appliances but not you. Saying they are restricting your freedom using your example is like saying your friend was put in jail, and thus they are restricting your freedom to hang out with that friend, which IMHO is a bad interpretation.
- paulgb 6y agoThey're restricting my freedom in the sense that, in the absence of government, I would be free to contract with the seller of the non-certified heater.
- colordrops 6y agoYou are still free to contract with the seller, they are just unable to deliver to you.