No Treason, Vol. VI. The Constitution of No Authority   By: Lysander Spooner (1808-1887)

Lysander Spooner's treatise, often referred to as No Treason, Vol. VI, is an intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking analysis of the Constitution, challenging the very premise of its authority. Spooner's argument throughout the book is meticulous, logical, and relentlessly calls for individual liberty and freedom from government coercion.

The book delves into the essence of the Constitution, scrutinizing it from both legal and moral standpoints. Spooner vehemently contends that the Constitution, being a product of a small group of individuals, cannot legitimately claim authority over the masses. The author masterfully dissects the various amendments and clauses, exposing their inherent contradictions and flaws, thus questioning the basis of governmental legitimacy.

Spooner argues that the Constitution, rather than being a sacred document endowed with inherent rights, is just a mere piece of paper that has no rightful claim to control individuals' lives. He advocates for voluntary associations and contractual agreements instead of submitting to a centralized authority that often abuses its power.

The strength of Spooner's arguments lies in his proficient use of language and his ability to make complex ideas accessible to readers. The book presents a comprehensive critique of the state's monopoly on violence and the inherent injustice it contains. Through his unwavering logic, Spooner compels readers to question their acceptance of government as a necessary entity.

While Spooner's arguments may appear radical and challenging to many readers, they force us to confront critical questions regarding the nature of authority and the social contract. His call for voluntary associations and private governance lays the groundwork for a society built on individual consent rather than coercion.

Unfortunately, the book does come with some weaknesses. At times, Spooner's writing can be dense and difficult to follow, especially for those lacking a background in legal and philosophical concepts. Additionally, some readers may find his ideas difficult to accept or even find the book's proposals as impractical given the complex realities of governance in modern society.

In conclusion, No Treason, Vol. VI offers an intellectual exploration into the nature of government authority and challenges the legitimacy of the Constitution from multiple angles. Spooner effectively dissects the flaws of the document and presents a compelling argument for individual liberty and voluntary associations. While not without its challenges, this book is a must-read for those interested in political philosophy and the nature of governmental power. It leaves readers reflecting on our own understanding of authority and the potential for a more just and free society.

First Page:

The Constitution has no inherent authority or obligation. It has no authority or obligation at all, unless as a contract between man and man. And it does not so much as even purport to be a contract between persons now existing. It purports, at most, to be only a contract between persons living eighty years ago. And it can be supposed to have been a contract then only between persons who had already come to years of discretion, so as to be competent to make reasonable and obligatory contracts. Furthermore, we know, historically, that only a small portion even of the people then existing were consulted on the subject, or asked, or permitted to express either their consent or dissent in any formal manner. Those persons, if any, who did give their consent formally, are all dead now. Most of them have been dead forty, fifty, sixty, or seventy years. And the Constitution, so far as it was their contract, died with them. They had no natural power or right to make it obligatory upon their children. It is not only plainly impossible, in the nature of things, that they could bind their posterity, but they did not even attempt to bind them... Continue reading book >>