The Economic Functions of Vice

"The Economic Functions of Vice" by John McElroy is a debate from the past exploring the place of bad habits and sins in society. It suggests that these negative behaviors are like a force of nature that helps shape who we are as humans by getting rid of the weaker people. Unlike animals that are hunted, people have the ability to go too far and develop destructive habits. These bad habits, like drinking too much or breaking the law, act almost like rules of nature, pushing out those who aren't strong enough. By looking at history and science, the author tries to show how these bad habits are similar to the idea of "survival of the fittest." He shares a questionable view that welcomes the rough-and-tumble nature of selection, hinting that bad habits might actually help society by getting rid of the undesirable and letting the tough flourish.