George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School

Forum on the Economic & Legal Foundations of Capitalism


Event Details

  • Date:
  • Venue: Surf & Sand Resort
  • Division: The Henry G. Manne Program in Law & Economics Studies, The Judicial Education Program

In the rush to solve complex emerging problems, there is always a risk of forgetting simple truths and fundamental insights that are critically relevant today. The Forum revisited the legal, economic, and philosophical insights from legends of capitalism, the Rule of Law, and economic liberties – Adam Smith, Friedrich Hayek, Milton Friedman, and Nobel Laureate Vernon Smith – and explored how their time-tested understanding of these fundamental principles applies to current problems and concerns. This discussion is critically important as fierce debates are raging in modern public and legal discourse on the future and meaning of capitalism, corporate purpose, and the sustainability of the Rule of Law. The agenda featured leading law professors, economists, political scientists, and historians and include breakout sessions moderated by LEC scholars.