The Machinery of Freedom

David Friedman's foundational case for anarcho-capitalism, first published in 1973 and revised for this second edition in 1989 with eight new chapters added as Part IV. Friedman argues that markets can replace not just the industries government now regulates but government itself, including courts, police, and national defense.

Part I defends property rights and market outcomes against common objections about monopoly, exploitation, and inequality. Part II proposes specific market-based reforms to schooling, streets, and other government functions within the existing political system. Part III, "Anarchy Is Not Chaos," describes how a stateless society could supply law, courts, and even national defense through competing private firms.