Theme: Coercion

PROPERTY IN TOTO, RECIPROCITY, AND THE NECESSITY OF VIOLENCE

by Lucas Cort

(via brandon hayes) (curtd: this is flawless)

Property in toto (demonstrated property) provides a measurement of what humans value. Demonstration of value occurs in human action, when individuals or groups show a willingness and ability to defend said value. The use of violence ensures retention of property and acts as a deterrent against future violations. People can choose the strategies of cooperation, predation, parasitism, or non cooperation. Cooperation with strict adherence to reciprocity being the optimal strategy for long term productive interactions.

Reciprocity entails non imposition of costs against others property in toto, through productive, fully informed, warrantied, voluntary transfers. Violations of reciprocity lead to conflict due to asymmetrical imposition of costs. Predation being short term and parasitism being a medium term strategy.

Retaliation cycles ensue violations, revealing the need for third party assessment and resolution, including enforcement between parties. This gives rise to the discovery and evolution of Law, an insurer of last resort (polity/government), and the militia. These institutions and discoveries are created and upheld through the use of violence, creating disincentives for violations of reciprocity. Through this incremental domestication of man we maintain group cooperation and reap the surpluses that ensue. Resulting in the rapid evolution and competitive edge of the society at large.