Editor's Page

Are there dumb laws of nature? This reasonable question occurred to me some years back after I heard an eminent economist explain why automakers ought not to be compelled to install seat belts. Yes, it is safer to wear them, he granted, but our natural liberty is violated if human laws force us to be safe. There is a better way, he suggested: the market. If there are enough lethal accidents, sales will fall. Companies will recognize their self-interest and put in seat belts. Sales will rise. Business will prosper and everyone will be free and safe (save those who went through windshields). He forgot to conclude that nothing human is natural to us.