A Constitution for Knaves Crowds Out Civic Virtues
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；另一观点强调公民积极参与以增强美德，因此宪法需在严格与信任间平衡，并通过全民公决和倡议来维护公民美德。
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.