Presented by Willard Hurst as part of his course "Introduction to Modern American Legal History" at the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1978. This lecture focuses on Sumner's views on the legal and social order. This includes a consideration of individual private will, elements of the feudal society, and the emphasis placed on relations in the twentieth century legal order. Hurst moves into a discussion of specialization of contract law, and inequalities of bargaining power. The lecture closes with an introduction to Henry George and his thoughts on social change. This lecture continues to expand upon the theories of Henry George. The overall maintenance of the legal order is discussed, and linked to redistribution of wealth and taxation. Hurst emphasizes America's increased dependence on income in the twentieth century, and the widespread acceptance and legitimacy surrounding taxation.
