The Man Versus the State

"The Man Versus the State" is a collection of essays by British philosopher Herbert Spencer, published in 1884. It discusses the relationship between the individual and government, arguing that the state often infringes on personal freedoms and rights. Spencer advocates for minimal government intervention, believing that individuals should have the autonomy to pursue their own interests without excessive regulation. The work emphasizes the importance of personal liberty in society and critiques state power, suggesting that a balance is necessary to protect individual rights while maintaining social order.