Simple Rules for a Complex World

In this book, Richard Epstein argues that the greater the complexity of society, the greater the need for simple legal rules.

He proposes six core principles—autonomy of the individual, property, contract, tort, necessity and coordination with just compensation, and take and pay—to establish and protect consistent entitlements over all resources.

Epstein uses these principles to clarify various intractable problems in modern legal landscapes, including employment contracts, product liability, corporate transactions, and environmental protection.

The book advocates for a return to common-sense rules of common law to undo the inefficiencies of the modern regulatory state.