The Handbook of Human Ownership: A Manual for New Tax Farmers explores the concept of treating humans as property, drawing parallels to historical practices of slavery and ownership. It critically examines the ethical dilemmas and philosophical questions surrounding the idea of owning other people, challenging readers to consider the implications of such a viewpoint. The book aims to provoke thought about the nature of ownership, autonomy, and human rights.
The authors analyze how the notion of human ownership has been justified historically and the potential dangers of accepting such ideas in modern society. They discuss the importance of individual freedom and the moral boundaries that separate ethical treatment from exploitation. The book encourages readers to reflect on the consequences of viewing humans as commodities and to think about the importance of valuing human dignity.
While the title and subject matter are provocative, the book serves as a thought experiment rather than an endorsement of human ownership. It aims to illuminate the moral and philosophical issues involved in property and ownership rights, urging a deeper understanding of human rights and the moral considerations that underpin societal structures. The book challenges conventional views and invites critical discussions on ethics and morality.