Discussion One
I am convinced that the continued use of the eminent domain principle to convert privately owned lands for commercial use is not justifiable. The proponents of the eminent domain argue that there is always a fair compensation; therefore, the owner of the land is not extremely disadvantaged. Furthermore, when land is possessed for infrastructural development, such as the construction of an airport, the neighboring communities benefit from increased job opportunities as well as efficient transportation. However, the eminent domain often leads to displacement. Where the government acquires a land, the people that were sitting on it, including the former owner, have no option but to withdraw. Using the principle as a way of acquiring land can easily lead to ethnic division within a nation.
The benefits listed above are debatable. While a just compensation might be appropriate, the displaced individuals do not have the guarantee that they will get other pieces of land with similar potential. Besides, the benefits that the former owner will gain after their land is seized for establishing a public infrastructure will be marginal when compared to what the owner would have achieved if the land remained in their possession. In the light of this, I tend to think that governments should abandon the eminent domain discourse.
Discussion Two
Yes, the state should impose duties on landlords of rental properties. Primarily, such duties protect the tenants’ rights and ensure that they live in habitable building environments. Some of the safety issues involve fire, electrical equipment, and gas safety. The duties oblige the property owners to provide fire blankets and fire extinguishers that can be used during fire incidences. Furthermore, the duties oblige the landlords to organize periodic safety check to guarantee the safety of all tenants. Specifically, the duties underline the landlord’s obligations, especially in regards to repairing some of the broken equipment in the premise. The tenants should have the right to enjoy their homes exclusively. Therefore, noise and disturbances from other tenants should not interfere with their peace. Moreover, the tenant has the right to have visitors who can stay overnight or for a particular period.
