The Private Enforcement of Law: Materials from China

Abstract

From the perspective of the economic theory of law enforcement, this article systematically analyzes the private enforcement of law, including informal debt-collection, private detectives, private wanted circulars, the ”frisking” of suspected shoplifters, private fines, and lynching, with a focus on the case of China. The author then proceeds to analyze self-help remedies. Finally, the article argues that private individuals and non-state organizations should play a more important role in law enforcement in China.