How Minimal is the Minimal State?

This article addresses issues of distributive justice and the justification of the state’s political authority. According to Robert Nozick, only a minimal state is morally justifiable: one that protects the natural rights of its citizens but does not redistribute wealth and income among them. This article offers an argument that, contrary to Nozick’s assumptions, a minimal state can redistribute without exceeding its minimal functions. This is possible because a minimal state can use its budget in any non-violent manner as long as it contributes to its primary goal–ensuring public safety. Poverty and inequality significantly increase the risk of violent crime. Therefore, a minimal state has the right to provide social support to the poor to reduce the risk of violent crime. This argument is further defended against objections.