Life in the Market Ecosystem

(Hardback)

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Life in the Market Ecosystem, the second book in the Nature of Liberty trilogy, confronts evolutionary psychology head on. It describes the evolutionary psychologists theory of gene-culture co-evolution, which states that although customs and culture are not predetermined by anyones genetic makeup, ones practice of a custom can influence the likelihood of that person having children and grandchildren. Therefore, according to the theory, customs count as evolutionary adaptations. Extending that theory further, as entire systems of political economycapitalism, socialism, and hunter-gatherer subsistenceconsist of multiple customs and institutions, it follows that an entire political-economic system can likewise be classified as an evolutionary adaptation. Considering that liberal-republican capitalism has, insofar as the system has been implemented, done more to reduce the mortality rate and secure human fertility than other models of societal structure, it stands to reason that liberal-republican capitalism is itself a beneficent evolutionary adaptation. Moreover, as essential tenets of Rands Objectivismindividualism, observation-based rationality, and peaceable self-interesthave been integral to the development of the capitalist ecosystem, important aspects of the Objectivism are worthwhile adaptations as well. This book shall uphold that position, as well as combat critiques by evolutionary psychologists and environmentalists who denounce capitalism as self-destructive. Instead, capitalism is the most sustainable and fairest political model. This book argues that of all the philosophies, Objectivism is the one that is most fit for humanity.

Reviews

Life in the Market Ecosystem is a richly researched and powerfully uncompromising argument for laissez-faire. With a patient but unwavering focus, the book addresses capitalism's ubiquitous critiques while offering a morally grounded perspective on its global potential. This ambitious and illuminating treatise cements Hayashi among today's leading new intellectuals. -- Jonathan Hoenig, Fox News Contributor and Portfolio Manager, Capitalistpig Hedge Fund LLC
In this ambitious work, Stuart Hayashi clearly, systematically, and accessibly articulates the secular, philosophical, and moral foundations of a free society based on the supremacy of individual rights in which each person has the opportunity to pursue his flourishing and happiness. The author explains these foundations in language that will be understandable to educated laypersons, college students, and concerned citizens who follow current political issues covered by the media. While discussing the compatibility of human nature and individual rights, he makes a compelling and unprecedented argument that particular theories from the field of evolutionary psychology are congruent with Objectivisms views on human nature, individual rights, morality, social relationships, and the nature and rules of a proper government (i.e., a limited night watchman state). Hayashis book is a masterful feat of intellectual integration from various disciplines that builds on the work of Ayn Rand and other intellectual giants, past and present. -- Edward W. Younkins, Wheeling Jesuit University
Stuart K. Hayashi's Life in the Market Ecosystem, an exciting sequel to The Freedom of Peaceful Action, continues a prolific journey towards a tremendously deep understanding of man's individual rights in the modern, industrial context. With no stone left unturned and explored, Hayashi explains how the human ecosystem has evolved over time and how it has been studied and interpretedrightly and wronglyover the last three centuries. That grounding makes for a fascinating and provocative re-interpretation of nineteenth century liberalism and capitalism that is sure to infuriate and inspire in equal measure. The end result is a remarkable work of diverse scholarship that hammers home the essential point that man, that greatest of animals, requires liberty to think, survive, and prosper. -- Alexander Marriott, Wiley College
Stuart Hayashi has done it again. In this carefully researched book, he has marshaled an impressive array of facts, integrating them into a sustained and effective argument for liberty. Life in the Market Ecosystem should be studied diligently by the friends and foes of freedom alike. -- Andrew Bernstein, author of The Capitalist Manifesto: The Historic, Economic and Philosophic Case for Laissez-Faire

Author Bio

Stuart K. Hayashi works at the Hawaii State Capitol as a legislative analyst and aide in the governors office and both legislative houses.