The Antitrust Book Boomerang

[Commentary] In the clash between Amazon and Hachette, book fans and authors blame Amazon for its tough tactics. But the fault lies with the Justice Department and a federal judge for making the bullying possible.

The main impact of the antitrust case the government brought last year against was to entrench Amazon as the all-powerful online retailer, enabling it to engage in business practices available only to dominant players. The next chapter for e-books should feature Justice Department lawyers and federal judges who have the humility to stand aside and let the market determine winners and losers.