Since you prefer non-fiction, I'm going to say "The Law" by Frederic Bastiat.
Bastiat was a 19th century French political economist.
"The Law" was his treatise on political economy. He was a classical liberal, and argued for a limited government with well defined boundaries for what it should be allowed to do.
"Yeah, yeah", you're saying, "what's the big deal? Another stupid book about politics? What's so special about 'The Law'?
Good question. Here's what's special about this book:
1.) It's highly entertaining. Far from the dry language you would expect, at times, Bastiat is downright poetic] sometimes. He combines parables and storytelling with colorful language and rigorous logical examination in a way that is just marvelous.
2.) It's underground. When you are introduced to the concept of classical liberalism, you will often hear names like Locke and Hobbes - Bastiat has totally flown under the radar. Reading his work will give you some insights that one does not get from those other thinkers. Next time you hear someone bringing up political thinkers, namedrop this guy and tell them about an idea he had or the unique way in which he phrased a particular belief. You're bound to surprise - and impress someone.
3) It's no nonsense. In "The Law", Bastiat clearly addresses his adversaries, reading their own words and specifically addressing many of their arguments. He doesn't beat around the bush. Here is a guy that knows what he believes, knows *why* he believes it, and is more than willing to engage you on the issues. He doesn't mince words, and calls a lot of people to account for what he considers to be erroneous or dangerous ideas.
4) The language is accessible. When a friend first told me about "The Law", I figured it would be tough to read. It was written in the 19th century, after all. To the contrary, the common translations are way more down to earth and straight foward than one would imagine. There are a few words that stand out here and there, but you never get the impression that you're reading Shakespeare, you never got the impression that you're reading a "philosopher" (which is often code word for "too complex to explain")
5. Just the right size. "The Law" is just the right size. It's long enough to explain his beliefs, but not too long so that you are buried in pages upon pages. As mentioned earlier, it really cuts straight to the point in a way you would never guess a political philosopher could do. It's brilliant, but still perfect for many "average Joe's." As long as you like the subject, it's a breeze.
6. It provides clarity. After reading "The Law" you will have a tremendous grasp about the beliefs of many classical liberals. True, he doesn't speak for all classical liberals, but what you're going to get from this book is tremendous clarity about the principles and values that classical liberals held in high regard.
7. You can't help but sympathize:: While you may agree or disagree with "The Law", everyone I know that's read it found it hard not to at least sympathize with Bastiat. Here's a guy that is clearly "playing the game" only because he has a profound love for his fellow man, and he deeply desires that everyone should experience freedom. So at worst, you will disagree with policies, but it's hard to disagree with the sentiment - the energy and the heart that he put into his work.
Side note:
It's free. There are free copies available all over online. There are also free audiobook versions. Simply search "Bastiat The Law" or "Bastiat The Law Audiobook", and you will come up with it.
Well, that's my argument for "The Law" by Frederic Bastiat.
Post edited May 16, 2011 by stoicsentry
