Some would do away with private property but human nature makes this counter productive. To see the effects one only has to look at the condition of the average Habitat for Humanity house vs. the average public housing project. Both are attempts at providing housing for those unable to provide for themselves but the former actually gives the inhabitant a reason to care about its condition in the long run.
Coveting and theft are the greatest threats to civilization. The latter, motivated by the former, undermines the fundamental arrangements that create civilization. Therefore, the essential function of government is to maintain the principle of “to each his own." Any time government fails to defend that principle from others’ invasions or commits theft itself, it impedes civilization.
Source: Civilization and Private Property Are Inseparable - Foundation for Economic Education
