Nanny State

Abstract

It is sometimes called the first detective story, and every child used to know it. Two women come before King Solomon. Both have infant sons, but one has died and both lay claim to the surviving child. Solomon passes judgement. Cut the living boy into two, he says. Yes, agrees one woman, but the other cries out that she would rather lose the child than harm him. That one, says Solomon, is the true mother, and everyone applauds.