Are there are social problems that cannot be solved by passing laws?

[The Rabbi]

This seems a major problem in society. At what point do we say "laws are insufficient to stop these problems?" In my home state we have a terrible problem with domestic abuse. Domestic abuse sucks and those who do it are scumbags. No question. But it is already illegal and a person who does it incurs major penalties of all sorts.
So what kind of law can be passed to "deal with" domestic abuse? There isn't one.
And that is just one example. I think we need to quit expecting more out of government than it is capable of delivering.

 

[JakeStarkey]

Laws are necessary in order to provide punishment if not deterrence.

2aguy fails to make that connection when talking about laws and gun crime.

 

[Moonglow]

Are there are social problems that cannot be solved by passing laws?

they can't pass a law that will give fbj a girlfriend...

 

[Evesbodyman]

We can't pass a law against stupidity and ignorance. What a shame.

 

[amrchaos]

Suicide is virtually unpunishable.

 

[blackhawk]

You can't legislate behavior we need laws obviously but even with them there are limits to what they can do.

 

[Little-Acorn]

Are there are social problems that cannot be solved by passing laws?


Only about a million.

Laws are inadequate to solve most social problems.

Only the more extreme liberal fanatics believe that Government is the solution to our problems.

Normal people know that, in addition to having little or no effect on the social problem it's intended for, government usually creates additional problems.

Jefferson had it right: Government is there only to protect our rights - to keep other people from messing with us.

It's too blind and inefficient to handle much.

People themselves have to take care of the rest.