Recht und Macht sechs Vorträge

[Title Page and Publication Information]: Title page and publication details for Friedrich von Wieser's 1910 work 'Recht und Macht' (Law and Power), based on six lectures. [Preface]: Wieser outlines the origin of these lectures and his goal to refine the concept of freedom. He distinguishes between legitimate social power and oppressive 'Übermacht' (superior power), arguing that true law and freedom are rooted in historical social forces rather than abstract individualist theories. [Table of Contents]: A list of the six lectures and the specific excursus on constitutional law included in the volume. [Lecture 1: External and Internal Powers]: Wieser critiques Ferdinand Lassalle's view that constitutions are merely reflections of physical power (the 'cannons'). He argues that external power depends on 'internal power'—the psychological and historical forces that command the loyalty of those wielding the weapons. He introduces the 'law of the small number' to explain how organized minorities lead unorganized masses. [Lecture 2: The Origin of Social Powers]: Wieser critiques the 'homo oeconomicus' and social contract models as insufficient for understanding social reality. He proposes a 'Psychology of the One' (Psychologie des Man) and the 'herd instinct' to explain mass behavior, arguing that society is structured by the relationship between leaders (the small number) and followers, rather than individualistic utility calculations. [Lecture 3: Historical Trends of Movement]: A historical survey of how social power has evolved from primitive struggle to organized states and churches. Wieser discusses the civilizing role of Rome, the moral power of Christianity, and the rise of the bourgeoisie and proletariat. He warns that modern education (Bildung) risks creating a new divide between the 'intellectuals' and the masses. [Lecture 4: Law (Recht)]: Wieser defines law as a function of power that aims to organize social values with minimal friction. He explores the 'purpose in law' (Zweck im Recht), arguing that legal institutions like property evolve based on technical and social necessity. He concludes that while equality is a modern ideal, historical justice often recognized the 'leader's share' based on superior social contribution. [Excursus: Our Constitutional Law]: Wieser analyzes the failure of English-style parliamentarism in the multi-ethnic Austro-Hungarian Empire. He argues that the Austrian constitution was 'received' as an abstract ideal but lacked the historical power-base (parties) to function. He suggests that in the absence of stable parliamentary majorities, the power of the Crown and the bureaucracy must provide necessary leadership. [Lecture 5: The Materialist Conception of History]: Wieser critiques the Marxist view that economic production is the sole driver of history. While acknowledging the importance of the economic 'base,' he argues that social power is also determined by leadership and historical 'superstructures' that gain independent force. He disputes the imminent collapse of the bourgeoisie, noting their continued role as technical and organizational leaders. [Lecture 6: Freedom]: In the final lecture, Wieser synthesizes his views on freedom, distinguishing it from mere lack of restraint. He argues that freedom is a social state protected by the state and rooted in culture. He critiques both radical individualism and the 'Manchester School' of economics, advocating for a refined liberalism that recognizes social duties and the necessity of leadership in a free society. [Library Metadata and Card]: Library administrative information from the University of Toronto.