The Non-Aggression Principle Is Realistic and Not an Abstract Concept

Source: Ludwig von Mises Institute
by Wanjiru Njoya

“One mistake many libertarians make is to suppose that theoretical principles can provide a complete resolution for difficult cases, in the sense that we should be able to ascertain — just by studying the NAP — whether it has been violated in specific cases. Gordon points out that this overlooks the role of other considerations, such as social conventions and legal norms, in resolving real world disputes. The ‘morally unacceptable implications’ that many libertarians find disturbing are the result of theorizing about the NAP without regard to the broader ethical framework within which Rothbard defends property rights. Rothbard’s theory of liberty is not just a philosophical or academic treatise based on a set of hypothetical problems. It is also a ‘system of libertarian law’ designed as a foundation for ‘the truly successful functioning of what we may hope will be the libertarian society of the future.'” (04/22/25)

https://mises.org/mises-wire/non-aggression-principle-realistic-and-not-abstract-concept