The Limits of Private Governance: Norms and Rules in a Mediterranean Fishery

The Limits of Private Governance examines the long-term evolution of a private order in the fishery of Marseille, arguing that strong social norms are powerful tools of governance but also forces of inertia that have constrained its regulatory action. This book will appeal to academics, policy-makers, and the general public interested in the governance of modern societies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The book "The Limits of Private Governance" by Florian Grisel delves into a captivating question that has been debated by social scientists in recent decades. Since the 1980s, scholars in the field of socio-legal studies have proposed that governance based on social norms, often referred to as "private governance," can serve as an alternative to regulation by the law. According to this perspective, private governance can be socially efficient and even optimal, surpassing other modes of governance.

To complement this optimistic analysis, "The Limits of Private Governance" examines the long-term evolution of a private order in the fishery of Marseille. Throughout the past eight centuries, the fishermen of Marseille have managed their community without apparent legal support from the French state. In the early 15th century, they even established an organization called the Prud homie de Pêche to regulate their fishery. Grisel conducts his research by analyzing archival evidence, conducting interviews, and collecting ethnographic data. Through his examination, Grisel argues that the strong social norms embedded within the Prud homie de Pêche are not only powerful tools of governance but also forces of inertia that have limited its regulatory actions.

The insights and lessons derived from this book have broad appeal to academics, policymakers, and members of the general public who are interested in the governance of modern societies. The book sheds light on the potential limitations of private governance and highlights the importance of considering the social and cultural context in which governance structures operate. It encourages readers to explore alternative approaches to regulation and governance that can address the complex challenges of our time.

In conclusion, "The Limits of Private Governance" is a thought-provoking and insightful book that contributes to our understanding of the future of law and governance. By examining the case of the fishery of Marseille, Grisel offers valuable insights into the strengths and limitations of private governance. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of socio-legal studies and governance in modern societies.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509953981