We cannot wonder enough at the facility with which men resign themselves to continue ignorant of what it is most important that they should know; and… - Frédéric Bastiat

Socialism, like the ancient ideas from which it springs, confuses the distinction between government and society. As a result of this, every time we object to a thing being done by government, the socialists conclude that we object to its being done at all.

In general, however, these gentlemen, the reformers, legislators, and politicians, do not desire to exercise an immediate despotism over mankind. No, they are too moderate and too philanthropic for that. They only contend for the despotism, the absolutism, the omnipotence of the law.

The existence of persons and property preceded the existence of the legislator, and his function is only to guarantee their safety.