THE NON-AGGRESSION PRINCIPLE

The non-aggression principle (NAP), also called the non-aggression axiom, is a concept in which aggression, defined as initiating or threatening any forceful interference with either an individual or their property, is inherently wrong.

 

Inherent to the NAP is the concept of property rights: I am the owner of my body and I own the fruits of my labour. If that were not the case, somebody else would own my body and/or the fruits of my labour, which would be a form of slavery. Slavery is immoral because it is not a universal concept: slave masters have more rights than slaves. The concept of property rights means that violence, theft, rape and not respecting contracts are all immoral.

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The NAP is an axiom, a statement that is self-evident. This simple principle can form the basis of a more peaceful and harmonious society that builds on the freedom of association, voluntarism and trade based on the unique talents of each individual.