Chesher and Machan explore the cultural, philosophical, and theological sources of the bad reputation suffered by business in Western culture. They sample prominent opinion, from Plato to Galbraith, in an examination of the fundamental dichotomies of a society that seeks prosperity, yet disdains the processes by which prosperity is achieved.

These contributions examine the tragedy of the commons and what is affected by the tragedy. What is the proper scope of the public realm? The main insight is that human individuality needs to be properly accommodated in a system of community life, in law, and in public policy.

This essay argues that, contrary to widespread academic sentiments and impressions, the institution of private property rights fully accords with a sensible conception of human morality, indeed, rests on a solid moral foundation. Although the institution will forever remain vulnerable to critics like Karl Marx, the failure to respect and legally protect it has produced economic weakness across the globe.

Despite repeated criticisms, the political ideal of individual rights—to life, liberty, and property—is very relevant in our time. This essay argues against this misplaced hope and suggests that it is more promising for us to work out the implications of the individualist alternative than to stick to utopian collectivist dreams.