On the Nature of Norms: Biology, Morality, and the Disruption of Order

Abstract

This essay discusses the legal implications of bio-behavioral underpinnings to norms, morality, and economic order. It first discusses the recent book "The Great Disruption: Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order," in which Francis Fukuyama explores the importance of evolved human nature to the reconstruction of social order and a thriving economy. It then addresses the extent to which we can usefully view law-relevant norms as products of evolutionary - as well as economic - processes.

Keywords: law and economics, norms, morality, economic order, biology, evolution

JEL Classification: K00, D60, H00