Prof. Von Hayek Hits 'Rule of Law's' Death

Administrative discretion introduced to effectuate the policies of the "welfare state" is destroying "the rule of law," a noted economist told a Littauer audience last night.

Friedrich A. von Hayek, Professor at Chicago University and author of "The Road to Serfdom," said that whereas English law from the 16th to the beginning of the 20th century had been based on treating all citizens alike, it was now based on discrimination among citizens to effect social policies. He decried this trend, illustrating his contentions with quotations ranging from Greek to contemporary English sources.

In response to a question, von Hayek said he would rather see loopholes in the law, than have agencies and courts "create" law.

Professor van Hayek will speak on "The Economic Calculus" at 2 p.m. Monday in Littauer Lounge.