Seminar 4: Libertarianism
Definition: Libertarianism is a political philosophy which upholds individual liberty,
especially freedom of expression and action. Libertarianism includes diverse beliefs and
organizations–all advocate either the minimization or the elimination of the state1 (based on
the thought that government interference impairs efficiency), and the goal of maximizing
individual liberty and freedom. A libertarianist believes that everyone is entitled to what they
produce. Nozick believes that the minimal state would develop through voluntary
commitments. Like people gathering together to form different institutions, resembling the
institutions you would find in evolved societies with a maximal state.
"Actually, true conservatives tend to be libertarian on economic issues, and true liberals tend
to be libertarian on social issues," says Sharon Harris, president of the Advocates for SelfGovernment.
For Libertarianism
- Unalienable rights for everyone
- Everyone is equally valued
- Freedom to acquire own holdings
- The golden rule is followed
- People would in their own
interests form institutions that
would protect them from any
mishaps
1
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Libertarianism
Against Libertarianism
- Unfortunate groups will receive no
outside help unless other people
choose to help
- Distributional justice would make
no sense
- No equality of material positions
- Everyone for himself, no life
security
- Problem to maintain in practice
since there are people that would
take advantage of other people
and then the ones having their
liberties reduced would have no
right to get help
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