I maintain that the most important factor contributing to the civilization of man and the formation of societies, has little to do with religion or any such similar influences.

          Instead, the reason we are somewhat more civilized today is owing to the arrival of the brain’s capacity (because of more protein in the diet) to a level where it could comprehend and appreciate the fact that the division of labor provides a higher standard of living than that of autarky. Thus, it makes more sense from a self-serving perspective to trade with others rather than to war with them. It makes little sense to murder a potential trading partner.

          Now we come to the topic of this piece. That of property. I believe that the concept of property (and especially the idea of private ownership) has provided the glue that has held societies together after the division of labor brought them together in the first place.

          Sadly, the nature and importance of this concept have been misrepresented, misunderstood and misused, resulting in the schismatic and conflict-ridden world we inhabit today.

          No idea is more central to maintaining a peaceful society than a clear understanding of both the nature of property and the ownership thereof. 

         The primary point I wish to make here is my contention that nothing can be considered property which does not have clearly defined physical boundaries. This ties in with my piece on the importance of boundaries. Since I view property in this fashion I oppose all so called intellectual property rights. I will address those specifically in another piece.