Forbidden Grounds: The Case Against Employment Discrimination Laws

by Richard A. Epstein

Book Overview

This timely and controversial book presents powerful theoretical and empirical arguments for the repeal of the anti-discrimination laws within the workplace. Richard Epstein demonstrates that these laws set one group against another, impose limits on freedom of choice, unleash bureaucratic excesses, mandate inefficient employment practices, and cause far more invidious discrimination than they prevent. Epstein urges a return to the now-rejected common...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0674308093
• ISBN13: 9780674308091
• Release Date: March 1995
• Publisher: Harvard University Press
• Length: 550 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.3" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Interested but unpersuaded.

Mr. Epstein makes several fantastic points in this analysis of the efficiency and usefulness of civil rights laws. Specifically, his historical account of the misinterpretation of Title VII and his differentiation between racist hiring practices versus mandatory quota systems were solid points. However, I disagreed with him due to his relative indifference to the poor income distribution which could be caused by overt, legal discrimination. The "contract at will" approach that he espouses does not adequately address these issues, and I think historically we have seen that in situations where one race, sex etc is blatantly discriminated against, they do not fare quite as equally as Epstein predicts. While I disagree with the final premise, I am not saying that this is not an important book to read. Epstein is, as always, a fantastic writer and strong persuader. Worst comes to worst you will have a great time arguing with the pages.

Vintage Epstein

Epstein, as usual, offers a cogent and persuasive argument for libertarian principles. His theory of "rational discrimination," lucidly explained in this book, has provoked responses--and at least some changes--in the writings of more mainstream commentators on the subject such as Posner and Donohue. Like many scholars, Epstein is just a bit too sold on his own philosophy; at times he seems genuinely unable to believe anyone would disagree with him. Despite this minor flaw, the book is great, it offers a well-written presentation of an unorthodox, yet rather convincing philosophy.

A Great Book

Epstein offers a rigorous and persuasive case. Prepare to have your closed mind pried open.