Although the many gradations of Leftists might disagree about certain political tactics and economic policies, they hold two truths to be self-evident: The police must be defunded and all prisons closed. These ideas are puzzling to the vast majority of Americans, who understand that without law enforcement there are, in fact, no actual laws. Decreeing, for example, that theft is illegal means little if thieves are allowed to escape arrest and (presumably) punishment for their crimes. Moreover, the habit of failing to prosecute and incarcerate criminals makes it likely that committing crimes will become a lifestyle for some. Although many obey the law because they are good and moral people, just as many people are good—but not moral—simply because they fear the consequences inherent in breaking the law. Nonetheless, it must be understood, if we are ever to understand what Read more