logo

COMMONS MAGAZINE

An Introduction to Green Governance

May 31, 2012
Ecological Survival, Human Rights, and the Law of the Commons

The Law of the Commons

March 9, 2009
A conference in Seattle explores the legal framework of a commons-based society

Enforcing the Moratorium Commons: Of Terrorists, Pirates, State-sponsored Industrial Criminals, and Whales

February 21, 2007
A face-off between activist "pirates" and Japanese whaling ships highlights the meaning and complexity of the commons.

The Magna Carta and Commoners

May 14, 2006
The Magna Carta did more than secure individual rights; it established commons rights.

Transforming American Law to Promote Preservation of the Earth

March 15, 2006
If we are going to save our planet's ecosystems, we must change the core structure of the common law that arose in the nineteenth century and still governs our legal system.

Ten Tenets: The Law of the Commons of the Natural World

March 10, 2006
The ten commons commandments, which already are enshrined in legal traditions and many state laws.

The Public Trust Doctrine: Venerable and Besieged

December 19, 2005
The ancient public trust doctrine protects our drinking water, beach access, and other public rights in our own resources. But it is being challenged in the courts today.

Looting, Necessity, and the "Community of Goods"

September 13, 2005
There is a long tradition of philosophical and legal thinking that emphasizes that some things are more important than property rights.

Junk Law

August 15, 2005
In their zeal to stamp out "junk lawsuits," right-wingers ignore all the ridiculous, harmful copyright claims.