In the beginning there was anarchy; and mankind expressed ‘personal choice’ and did as it pleased.

In time the concept of ‘justice’, and the ‘rule of law’, evolved to the point, where now, the ‘right’ of ‘personal choice’ has been substantially eroded; and society is constrained by an ever increasing level of regulation, bureaucracy and control.

The Manx Herald, through a series of articles, will be exploring the rise of the ‘rule of law’ and the creation of the ‘nanny state’; whilst considering the benefits, and the pitfalls, to society, the state and individuals of this system.

The first of these articles will consider financial services which, given the current turmoil in this industry, is probably the most appropriate subject to commence with.

Thereafter, we will explore issues such as the compulsory wearing of seat belts and helmets, ‘Health & Safety’ legislation, firearms, fireworks, education, ‘social’ housing and so on.

Suggestions for suitable topics for discussion, and contributions to the ‘debates’, are of course welcome.

Send your suggestions or contributions to heraldeditor@manx.net

The deadline for contributions for the first article, on ‘financial services’, is Saturday, 25^th April 2009 (now extended to 2nd May 2009 owing to recent 'technical' problems).

This article will essentially look at the arguments for and against greater regulation, and issues such as compulsory ‘retirement/health service/care’ plans; and where the government and ‘the industry’ stand on these issues.