The experience of “bandit capitalism” or “tyrant capitalism” in postcommunist societies shows that markets cannot work properly without a community of trust and mutual respect. Such a community can be achieved only where there is a rule of law, applied by able and independent judges.
About the Author
Charles Fried is Beneficial Professor of Law at Harvard University Law School. Born in Prague, he has served as Solicitor General of the United States (1985-89) and as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts (1995-99). His publications include Contract as Promise (1981) and Order and Law: Arguing the Reagan Revolution (1991).
A review of From Reform to Revolution: The Demise of Communism in China and the Soviet Union, by Minxin Pei and Sowing the Seeds of Democracy in China: Political Reform in the…
In the two decades since the Tiananmen massacre, China has enjoyed rapid economic growth and a measure of political stability. Recently, however, various forms of popular protest have been increasing.…
