The Golden Rule as a method of inquiry into the constitution of self-governing societies as opposed to government-centered societies makes for fascinating and insightful essays that examine the cultural norms and formal rules that facilitate the protection of rights, maintenance of human freedom, and equitable governance of common resources.

John Kincaid, Lafayette College

Given the global conflicts and crises we face, this volume on governance systems could not be more timely, nor the topics covered more relevant. The book is by Vincent Ostrom, his colleagues, and students. Indeed, in many ways, we are all his students. Vincent Ostrom is a pioneer in analysis of the organization, structure, and performance of institutions for collective action. Some arrangements work and some do not. This volume addresses key areas of current concern: violence and political order, legal pluralism, cooperation and trust among groups of different religions, and natural resource stewardship. The chapters draw upon insights from Vincent Ostrom's work to provide fresh, new ways of viewing otherwise seemingly intractable problems. Throughout, there is an underlying optimism that where conditions for collective action are met, human ingenuity and institutional design foster collaboration to address the challenges at hand.

Gary Libecap, University of California, Santa Barbara