I would argue that natural law does not recognize individual property rights. Throughout most of human history, we embraced a nomadic lifestyle and land was our common heritage. But at some point, between eight and ten thousand years ago, wandering groups began to settle down ... maybe finding a fertile valley that supported them adequately all year long--a valley that they were willing to fight to keep. Then came agriculture ... and cities ... and armies ... and hierarchies. Admittedly, we gained a lot ... nomads would not have built medical centers or universities, and there would likely be no power grids.

The Khoisan people in southern Africa have tenaciously clung to a lifestyle that oince typefied most of humanity--although the Botswana government is doing its best to force them to settle. They migrate in groups of roughly fifty people, following the seasons. They are egalitarian ... all adults participate in decision making. Men generally hunt and women search for fruit and vegetables--but if a woman wants to hunt and a man would prefer to be a gatherer, they can assume those roles. Egalitarian. Democratic. Participatory.

So yes, we gained a lot ..,. but we gave up a lot as well.