A new book from Independent Institute argues the state only has the power we mistakenly grant it. What if we didn’t?

—Gary Chartier, associate dean and distinguished professor of law and business ethics, Tom and Vi Zapara School of Business, La Sierra University

His solution? Leviathan: the sovereign power, the guard against chaos.

For centuries, most political philosophers have taken his argument for granted.

But should they?

After all, is the Hobbesian fear truly rooted in reality? If not, what happens to politics when we allow fear, not cooperation, to become foundational to our framework? Robert Nozick asked these same questions in Anarchy, State, and Utopia. Today, Aeon J. Skoble—professor of philosophy, bestselling author, and acclaimed political theorist—brings Nozick’s questions back to life with new urgency and insight.

And he extends Nozick’s argument even further … with some surprising conclusions.

In a bold challenge to centuries of political orthodoxy, Deleting the State makes a powerful case that the state as we understand it today is not only morally unjustifiable but also, thankfully, unnecessary.

Packed with urgent lessons, original insights, and unparalleled philosophical rigor, this book is essential reading for anyone who dares imagine a freer world.