The Purpose of Government



I'm a big fan of teleology -- the study of "ends" or purpose. In particular, I believe we need to understand the purpose of systems in order to effectively reform them. I've had a remarkably difficult time finding a concise explanation of the purpose of government, so I've decided to start on my own:

The primary purpose of government is to legitimize authority and socialize justice.

It may be simplistic, but at least it covers the issues that seem the most salient. In particular, the breakdown of either one of these is usually the hallmark of a failed government (as opposed to merely a bad one).

Posted: Fri - November 5, 2004 at 07:06 AM        

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