Do we Need the Government? (4) - Protection from Thieves

A variety of options are available to those who are worried about their property being stolen.

• Giving possessions away to the poor.
• Placing all valuables in a band for security.
• Employing a personal body guard.
• Purchasing insurance against theft.
• Putting locks on all doors and gates
• Living in a community of people who are honest.

The civil government does not protect our property, because the police will only act after a theft has occurred. If they catch the thief, he will be fined, but the stolen goods will not necessarily be returned. More often the crime will be too small to justify police resources, or there will be insufficient for an arrest and prosecution.