Sticky fingers

Re: “The Sweet Allure of Free Syrup,” by Kevin Libin, Feb. 17

In his commentary, Kevin Libin presents an article in the grand tradition of Financial Post analysis. However, by far his most insightful comment was his identification of the exact nature of the activities of La Federation des producteurs acericole du Quebec. I refer to his statement that “But as anyone with experience in protection rackets might know, the more one protects, the more protective services are required.” This is simply saying that all organizations, including bureaucracies, like to grow bigger and expand their power, simply because they enjoy exercising arbitrary power.

The notion that government — all government — is at its root a protection racket is a notion worth far wider consideration and discussion.

Kudos to Libin for starting the ball rolling. James Cripps, North Vancouver, B. C.