I'm curious what you guys think of this bit of political theorizing from Newsday columnist James Pinkerton.

We like to think that we have made progress in the four centuries since, especially here in the United States. But we're up against a basic reality: As populations grow denser, and as technology improves, there's a natural need for more regulation to keep people's elbows, and machines, from banging into each other.

That's the reason why, for example, Wyoming is a more libertarian place than New York City. Out in the West, where miles might separate people, you can pretty much do what you want. But, if millions are going to live in close proximity to one another, then lots of red tape is going to thread itself around each resident, governing not only the obvious concerns, such as weapons and pollution, but matters such as noise abatement and cigarette smoking.

Do you people agree? I don't think it has to be that way. Does society necessarily become less free the larger it grows?

Posted by: Greg at 04:08 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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