为无赖设计的宪法会排挤公民美德

A Constitution for Knaves Crowds out Civic Virtues

Economic Journal · 1997
被引 651 · 同刊同年前 2%
人大 AABS 4

中文导读

讨论宪法设计时,经济学家关注搭便车倾向,但防范无赖行为会排挤公民美德;另一观点强调公民参与以增强美德,因此可行的宪法需既严格遏制剥削,又传达对公民和政治家的信任,并通过全民公决和倡议来维持和培养公民美德。

Abstract

When discussing constitutional design, economists concentrate on the propensity of individuals to free ride. Preventing opportunistic behaviour by knaves has costs by crowding out civic virtue. Another view emphasises active citizen participation in order to bolster civic virtue. A viable constitution must therefore be strict enough to deter exploitative behaviour. At the same time, the constitution should fundamentally convey trust towards its citizens and politicians. Distrusting public laws risk destroying the positive attitude of citizens and politicians towards the state. Civic virtue can be maintained and fostered by direct citizen participation via popular referenda and initiatives.

宪政设计搭便车公民美德直接民主