Legal Systems Very Different from Ours Book Summary

In 'Legal Systems Very Different from Ours', authors Peter Leeson, David Skarbek, and David Friedman explore fascinating and unconventional legal systems that challenge our perceptions of law and order. From medieval Iceland's unique conflict resolution methods to the informal, self-regulating rules of pirates, the book reveals how diverse civilizations create their own justice mechanisms. It prompts intriguing questions: What can we learn from these systems about human behavior and governance? As it delves into the unexpected efficiency of these alternatives, readers are invited to rethink the very foundations of law. A compelling journey through history and human ingenuity awaits those who dare to discover the world's legal diversity.

By Peter Leeson, David Skarbek, David Friedman

Published: 2019

""In societies with unique legal systems, often it is not the law itself that determines justice, but rather the unwritten rules that guide human behavior and interactions.""

Book Review of Legal Systems Very Different from Ours

This book looks at thirteen different legal systems, ranging from Imperial China to modern Amish: how they worked, what problems they faced, how they dealt with them. Some chapters deal with a single legal system, others with topics relevant to several, such as problems with law based on divine revelation or how systems work in which law enforcement is private and decentralized. The book's underlying assumption is that all human societies face the same problems, deal with them in an interesting variety of different ways, are all the work of grown-ups, hence should all be taken seriously. It ends with a chapter on features of past legal systems that a modern system might want to borrow.

Similar books you might like →

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Similar Book Recommendations →

David Heinemeier Hansson's Book Recommendations

David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work

Business and LeadershipProductivityInspiring Reads

Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.

Business and LeadershipInspiring ReadsLife AdviceMindfulnessSuccess Stories and Life Lessons

Ran Segall's Book Recommendations

Ran Segall is an Israeli designer, YouTuber, and entrepreneur, known for his work in freelance web design and his popular YouTube channel, Flux Academy. Segall provides design tutorials, business advice, and insights for freelancers, helping designers improve their craft and grow their businesses. He has built a successful online platform through his transparent and practical approach to design education. Segall also runs Flux Academy, where he teaches web design and freelancing strategies to aspiring designers around the world. His approachable style and expertise have made him a trusted resource in the design community.

Business and LeadershipCreativity and InnovationEducation

Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

Business and LeadershipSuccess Stories and Life LessonsInspiring Reads

Patrick Collison's Book Recommendations

Patrick Collison is an Irish entrepreneur and co-founder of Stripe, a global technology company that enables businesses to accept online payments. Along with his brother John, Patrick has transformed Stripe into one of the most valuable private tech companies in the world. Stripe’s innovative approach to online payments has made it a key player in the financial technology space. Collison is known for his deep interest in science, technology, and policy, often engaging in conversations about innovation, progress, and how to improve societal outcomes. He is an advocate for scientific advancement and the intersection of technology and public policy.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring Reads

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

PoliticsMemoirs and BiographiesSuccess Stories and Life Lessons

David Deutsch's Book Recommendations

David Deutsch is a British physicist and philosopher, widely known for his contributions to quantum mechanics, particularly in the area of quantum computation. He is the author of The Fabric of Reality and The Beginning of Infinity, where he explores the nature of knowledge, progress, and the future of human civilization. Deutsch’s work in quantum computing laid the groundwork for the development of quantum algorithms, positioning him as a pioneer in this emerging field. He is a proponent of the multiverse theory and has offered profound insights into the nature of reality, science, and human potential. Deutsch’s philosophical work emphasizes the power of reason and creativity in solving problems and expanding human understanding. His ideas have had a significant impact on the fields of theoretical physics and epistemology, making him a leading thinker on the future of science and technology. He continues to inspire both scientists and lay readers with his optimistic vision of a world shaped by knowledge and innovation.

Science and NatureTechnology and FutureSpirituality and Philosophy

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring ReadsMemoirs and Biographies

Showing 8 of 14 related collections

"In societies with unique legal systems, often it is not the law itself that determines justice, but rather the unwritten rules that guide human behavior and interactions."

Legal Systems Very Different from Ours

By Peter Leeson, David Skarbek, David Friedman