Bases Quote by Lawrence Lessig
“While control is needed, and perfectly warranted, our bias should be clear up front: Monopolies are not justified by theory; they should be permitted only when justified by facts. If there is no solid basis for extending a certain monopoly protection, then we should not extend that protection.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Antitrust Policy, 2015
Regulation should be transparent; monopolies need factual justification, not just theory.
In simple terms: Monopolies need clear, fact‑based justification.
Key Takeaway
Demand evidence before granting monopoly rights.
Themes
law
policy
transparency
monopoly
evidence
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
policy
legal
When to use this quote
- regulatory review
- legislative drafting
- business strategy
- consumer advocacy
Key Concepts
economics
public policy
competition law
Questions to Reflect On
- What data would justify a monopoly?
- How can transparency be enforced?
A Different Perspective
Monopolies may persist due to political pressure despite weak evidence.
