save the date
for next year’s conference!
THE 2016
I N T E R NAT I O NA L
thSTUDENTS FOR LIBERTY
9 annual
c on f e r e nc e
February 26 – 28, 2016
Washington, DC
marriott wardman park
WELCOME to the
marriott wardman park
ISFLC
2015 | 4
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F R E E CO P I E S AVA I L A B L E AT T H E C ATO I N S T I T U T E B O OT H
—SENATOR RAND PAUL
“
“
“
The Libertarian Mind
belongs on every
freedom-lover’s bookshelf.
The Libertarian Mind is so
convincing, critics will want
to condemn it, regulate it,
tax it, fleece it, and forbid it.
Fortunately, good ideas haven’t
been outlawed—yet.
“
—PETER THIEL, technology
entrepreneur and investor, author of
Zero to One
“
Boaz’s message is both
timeless and extraordinarily
relevant to the challenges
that we are facing today. It
deserves to be read carefully
and thoughtfully by everyone who truly cares about
creating a more ethical and
prosperous world.
“
—JOHN P. MACKEY, Co-founder and
Co-CEO, Whole Foods Market
PUBLISHED BY SIMON & SCHUSTER
AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE AND AT
CATO.ORG/STORE
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5 | ISFLC 2015
“Passionate…
“
intelligent.
—JONATHAN RAUCH, author of Kindly
Inquisitors: The New Attacks on Free Thought
J
ournalists face constant intimidation.
Whether it takes the extreme form of
beheadings, death threats, government
censorship, or simply political correctness
—it casts a shadow over their ability to
tell a story.
No one knows this better than Flemming
Rose, the editor at the Danish newspaper
Jyllands-Posten, who, in 2006, published
cartoons of the prophet Muhammad, inciting a worldwide firestorm. In The Tyranny
of Silence, he not only recounts that story,
but takes a hard look at the slippery slope
of attempts to limit free speech in a world
that is increasingly multicultural, multireligious, and multiethnic.
AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE
HARDBACK: $24.95 • EBOOK: $12.99
ISFLC 2015 | 6
7 | ISFLC 2015
ISFLC 2015 | 8
START
575
A YAL CHAPTER
YAL IS THE NATION’S LARGEST AND
FASTEST GROWING PRO-LIBERTY
YOUTH ORGANIZATION
To find or start a chapter on your campus visit
www.YALiberty.org/chapters
9 | ISFLC 2015
YOUNG AMERICANS FOR LIBERTY
JOIN YAL
www.YALiberty.org
Learn More at www.YALiberty.org
ISFLC 2015 | 10
In recognition of
Students for Liberty’s hard
work advancing freedom
and justice.
11 | ISFLC 2015
MARRIOTT WARDMAN PARK HOTEL
2660 Woodley Road NW, Washington, DC 2008
EXHIBITION LEVEL
MEZZANINE LEVEL
LOBBY LEVEL
HOTEL INFO
PHONE: 202-328-2000
CHECK IN: 4:00 pm
CHECK OUT: 12:00 pm
CONFERENCE WIFI PASSWORD:
15ISFL
TRANSPORTATION INFO
METRO STOP: Woodley Park—
Zoo/Adams Morgan on the Red Line
RIDE WITH UBER:
Download the Uber app on your
iPhone or Android Device, sign up
with the promo code ISFLC15
and your first two Uber rides
are FREE up to $10.
ISFLC 2015 | 12
SCHEDULE
2015 International Students For Liberty Conference
Marriott Wardman Park Hotel | 2660 Woodley Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
FRIDAY
2:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Registration Opens | Convention Registration Desk
2:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exhibit Hall Opens | Exhibition Hall A
2:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Art Exhibit Opens | Washington 3
2:00-3:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Speed Networking | Delaware A
You only have three days to spend in DC at the largest gathering of pro liberty students
in the world so join us after you finish registering to meet new friends and professional
contacts before the official programming starts!
3:15-4:15 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 1 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
4:30-5:30 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 2 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
4:30 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Can Silicon Valley Save the Republic?
Ed Hudgins Sponsored by The Atlas Society | Virginia Suite
5:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Building a Permanent Governing Majority Coalition for Liberty
Grover Norquist Sponsored by Americans for Tax Reform | Virginia Suite
6:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opening Remarks
Alexander McCobin, President, Students For Liberty
Marriott Ballroom
6:30 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A Conversation with Dr. Ron Paul & Judge Andrew P. Napolitano
moderated by Nick Gillespie
Marriott Ballroom
7:30-8:30 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Photo Opps with Ron Paul | Marriott Ballroom Balcony
7:30-9:30 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . All Conference Reception
Sponsored by FreedomWorks | Exhibit Hall A
FRIDAY BREAKOUT SESSIONS
3:15–4:15 pm. . . . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 1
The Teachings of Chairman Jim: The ‘Nuts and Bolts’ of Building a Libertarian
Organization on Campus
James W. Lark III | DELAWARE B
This address provides a discussion (based upon roughly 30 years of experience) of the
important steps involved in building an effective libertarian organization on campus.
13 | ISFLC 2015
It Sucks to be Young: 4 Ways the Government Screws America’s Youth
Peter Suderman, Logan Albright, Julie Borowski, Michael D. Ostronlenk, moderated by
Jackie Bodnar Sponsored by FreedomWorks | MARYLAND A
1) Healthcare, 2) Education, 3) Entitlements & 4) Civil Liberties
From ‘Protect and Serve’ to ‘Comply or Die?’: The Militarization of U.S. Police
Abby Hall Sponsored by The Independent Institute | MARYLAND B
The distinction between domestic police and U.S. military forces has rapidly eroded.
Historical attempts to constrain and separate military from domestic police functions have
largely failed. The citywide “lockdown” and searches of Watertown, MA in 2013, and the
use of tear gas, the National Guard, and arrests of journalists in Ferguson, MO in 2014 are
but two recent illustrations of domestic police acting as military forces. This talk examines
the mechanisms through which U.S. police forces have become militarized. It examines
the role of domestic crises, and the larger “War on Drugs” and “War on Terror” in the
accelerated militarization of domestic policing.
Good news! Robots are going to take your job and have sex with your partner
Katherine Mangu-Ward, Elizabeth Brown & Ron Bailey Sponsored by Reason | MARYLAND C
Driverless cars, Amazon package drones, and automated McDonald’s cashiers are on the
verge of reshaping the modern economy--and that’s just the beginning. Will the jobs they
displace cause unique hardship or opportunity for civilization to grow? Also, sexbots.
4:30–5:30 pm. . . . . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 2
Antiwar Republican: A conversation with Rep. Walter Jones
Rep. Walter Jones Sponsored by Young Americans for Liberty | DELAWARE A
From proposing “Freedom Fries” to being the most vocally antiwar representative in the
House, Rep. Walter Jones’ foreign policy story makes him the most interesting man in the
Congress. Join him for a discussion of his personal transition and what you can do to end
entanglements abroad.
The Dark Art of Persuasion: Ten Spells to Enchant your Audience
Max Borders Sponsored by FEE | DELAWARE B
Are you an effective spokesperson for freedom? Do you want others to see the light? People
aren’t blank slates to be written on by reason alone. That is why we have to learn the arcana
of persuasion—including linguistic techniques, social psychology, and value types.
Gays, Guns, and Ganja: The Libertarian Moment at the Supreme Court
Ilya Shapiro Sponsored by Cato Institute | MARYLAND A
With marriage again before the Supreme Court, it seems almost inevitable that gay
people will soon be able to marry in all 50 states. This is incredible given that a decade
ago barely a third of Americans supported same-sex marriage and a decade before that
the idea couldn’t be broached in polite company. Find out how this trend in popular and
legal opinion parallels two other libertarian causes: the right to bear arms and the right to
smoke up.
ISFLC 2015 | 14
If it takes more than a well-patterned bowtie to
stand out this weekend, what will it take when
you’re on the job hunt?
Jobs Internships Educational Programs
Charles Koch Institute
charleskochinstitute.org
Tweet @CKinstitute to get our booth number
and stop by to learn how our educational programs
can help you stand out in your career for liberty.
The Charles Koch Institute admits applicants of any race, color, national or ethnic origin.
We are an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V
15 | ISFLC 2015
ISFLC 2015 | 16
SATURDAY
9:30-10:00 am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coffee Service | Exhibit Hall A & Washington 3
Limited Quantities: First-Come, First-Served
10:00-10:30 am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Do’s and Don’ts of Talking Liberty
Jeffrey Tucker Sponsored by FEE
Virginia Suite
10:00-11:00 am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 3 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
11:15-11:45 am . . . . . .Black Market Generation: How Millennials are Changing North Korea
Yeon-mi Park
Virginia Suite
11:15-12:15 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 4 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
11:45-12:15 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self-Control or State Control?
Why Personal Responsibility is Radical, Subversive, and Cool
Tom Palmer Sponsored by Atlas Network
Virginia Suite
12:30-12:45 pm . . . . . . . . . . . The Art of Talking to Strangers: Demonstrating How to Table
on Campus | Exhibit Hall A Lounge
1:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taping of the “STOSSEL” show with John Stossel!
Marriott Ballroom
3:45-4:45 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Liberty on Capitol Hill
with Rep. Justin Amash & Rep. Thomas Massie
Sponsored by Young Americans for Liberty
Virginia Suite
3:45-4:45 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 5 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
4:45-5:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Art of Talking to Strangers: Demonstrating How to Table
on Campus | Exhibit Hall A Lounge
5:00-5:30 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Response to Tyranny is More Freedom, Not Less
Matt Kibbe Sponsored by FreedomWorks
Virginia Suite
5:00-6:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 6 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
5:30-6:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fighting for Freedom in Putin’s Russia
Vera Kichanova
Virginia Suite
6:15-7:15 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How to Make the Libertarian Moment Permanent:
Reason’s Guide to the 21st Century
A mind-blowing multimedia maelstrom with Nick Gillespie, Reason TV & special guest stars!
Virginia Suite
17 | ISFLC 2015
6:15-7:15 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 7 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
7:30-8:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The 2015 SFL Awards Presentation
Marriott Ballroom
8:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Discussion of Edward Snowden
Marriott Ballroom
SATURDAY BREAKOUT SESSIONS
10:00–11:00 am. . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 3
So you’re a libertarian. Who gives a $h*t?
YAL Regional Directors Sponsored by Young Americans for Liberty | DELAWARE A
What’s the point of being the smartest, purest, most well-educated libertarian on
the planet if you don’t do anything about it? This interactive session will teach
effective messaging and how to be successful recruiting students on a college
campus.
Myths of Economic Development and Foreign Aid
Adam Martin Sponsored by Institute for Humane Studies | DELAWARE B
Why are some nations rich and others poor? This is the oldest question in
economics, but was ignored for many years. In the past few years there has
been a resurgence of interest in economic development and foreign aid. This talk
explores popular myths about development, explaining how they run afoul of both
basic economic reasoning and contemporary academic research.
Rhetoric Workshop
Tom Palmer Sponsored by Atlas Network | MARYLAND A
Do you (or a friend) ever feel nervous speaking in public? Do you want to learn
how to convince your friends, family, fellow primates? Learn the practical ancient
art of rhetoric from Dr. Tom G. Palmer. Learn how to open minds, turn foes into
friends, and build the liberty movement. You can become a better advocate, writer,
speaker.
Is Obama’s Foreign Policy Weak?
Ivan Eland Sponsored by The Independent Institute | MARYLAND B
Republicans have criticized Obama’s foreign policy for making the United States
seem weak abroad. Compared to other recent presidents is this charge true? Or
is this alleged malevolent benevolence in the eye of the beholder, thus rendering
Obama’s foreign policy really rationale and sensible?
ISFLC 2015 | 18
Screwing You with Your Pants On: More Reasons to Hate Boomers
Nick Gillespie, Veronique de Rugy & Robby Soave Sponsored by Reason |
MARYLAND C
Who could have imagined that the drug hazed youth of our parents generation
would morph into the largest American demographic that relies on government.
Baby boomers are single handedly increasing the national debt through ridiculous
pension promises and federal entitlements and you’re paying for it all.
Crowding Out: How The Government Incentivizes Bad Science
Pat Michaels Sponsored by Cato Institute | WASHINGTON 5
Scientists, as with any group of citizens, respond to incentives. Dr. Pat Michaels,
Director of the Cato Institute’s Center for the Study of Science, will speak to
distortions created by the public funding of science and its effects on public policy
and academia.
Media and Politics
Bernardo Vidigal, Juliano Torres & Debora Gois Sponsored by Students For Liberty |
WASHINGTON 6
What effect does the Media have on the public? How about on our politics? This
session addresses the lessons to be learned for libertarian activism.
Careers Panel
Sponsored by Alumni For Liberty | ROOSEVELT 4
College graduates face a myriad of possible career paths. Come learn from leaders
in the business, policy, academic, non-profit and media communities who will
discuss many of the options available and how recent grads can take the first
steps down the road of building your career. Moderated by Tax Foundation Vice
President Joseph Henchman.
Why You Need Philosophy
David Kelley Sponsored by The Atlas Society | ROOSEVELT 5
Political views are governed by peoples’ underlying beliefs--their philosophical
premises. Learning to spot these premises in political arguments will make you a
more effective advocate for liberty. David Kelley will show you how.
11:15–12:15 pm. . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 4
Get paid to promote liberty: Find a job or internship in the movement
Kayla Westbrook, Will Adams, Casey Dietrich, moderated by Patricia Simpson
Sponsored by Young Americans for Liberty | DELAWARE A
Are you a college graduate looking for a job? Is getting a good internship way more
complicated than you thought it would be? Learn from expert (and employed) activists
as they talk shop about how to score a job promoting your philosophy.
19 | ISFLC 2015
Votes for Sale!
James Stacey Taylor Sponsored by Institute for Humane Studies | DELAWARE B
When people say that a politician “bought” an election they mean this as a criticism.
James Stacey Taylor doesn’t—he thinks that elections should be for sale, with voters
being able to buy and sell votes like candy. In this talk, he explains why this system
would actually be better than the current system where votes sales are prohibited. Even
if it might not affect the outcomes of elections, allowing vote sales would make the poor
and the politically disinterested better off than they currently are.
How can Bitcoin advance wellbeing in society?
Sam Patterson Sponsored by Charles Koch Institute | MARYLAND A
Bitcoin has become popular among advocates for liberty, but can the digital currency
be used for more than an alternative to fiat currency? This talk discusses the potential
that cryptocurrencies have for enhancing wellbeing around the world.
Liberty in Action: Real Activism, Real Results
Garrett Atherton Sponsored by the Institute for Justice | MARYLAND B
The Institute for Justice stands up for civil liberties in the courts of law and in the
streets. Our grassroots activism team, Liberty in Action, will help you be an effective
advocate for victims of government abuse. Learn how to organize communities, raise
public awareness, and rally support for the cause of limited government. Don’t just talk
about liberty…put it in action!
Freedom in Film
Naomi Brockwell Sponsored by Moving Picture Institute | MARYLAND C
“Movies can and do have tremendous influence in shaping young lives ...” -- Walt
Disney. Changing culture is the most powerful way to change society, because politics
is downstream from culture. Hear Naomi Brockwell of the Moving Picture Institute talk
about some of the best films that promote freedom, and also learn about MPI’s exciting
career opportunities for budding filmmakers.
Free Thoughts *LIVE* Podcast Recording and Q&A – Police Misconduct
Aaron Powell, Trevor Burrus & Jonathan Blanks Sponsored by Cato Institute | WASHINGTON 5
Free Thoughts is a weekly hour-long podcast about libertarianism and the ideas that
influence it. During this live recording, hosts Trevor Burrus and Aaron Powell will be
joined by Jonathan Blanks, Research Associate at Cato’s Project on Criminal Justice, to
discuss police misconduct and its effects on communities. Audience members will be
given a chance to ask questions and appear on the podcast.
Christian Libertarian Solutions to Common 21st Century Problems
Norman Horn and Jason Rink Sponsored by Christians For Liberty | WASHINGTON 6
Christian libertarians face the dual challenge of being Christian in a largely secular
libertarian world and of explaining libertarian perspectives in Christian communities.
Yet Christian and libertarian beliefs are indeed complimentary and offer solutions to
today’s problems. Come learn how to explain this synergy and grow our community.
ISFLC 2015 | 20
Making the Pitch
John Payne and Nathan Fatal Sponsored by Alumni For Liberty | ROOSEVELT 4
From explaining liberty on campus to selling yourself in a job interview, the key to
success is how you present yourself and your ideas. Come learn how to stand out,
recruit that new student, and land that dream job out of college.
Objectivism: Reason and Reality
David Kelley Sponsored by The Atlas Society | ROOSEVELT 5
Ayn Rand’s philosophy defends liberty from a perspective rooted in objectivity. Learn what
objectivity consists in and why reason is an “absolute” that can never be compromised.
3:45–4:45 pm. . . . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 5
Is Freedom Really Good?
Antony Davies Sponsored by Institute for Humane Studies | DELAWARE B
The argument for coercion holds that, left to their own, people will consolidate power,
stifle competition, exploit each other, and confiscate wealth. The argument for freedom
holds that, left to their own, people will disseminate power, encourage competition,
cooperate with each other, and create wealth. Comparing income, equality, poverty,
social, and environmental outcomes across societies with differing levels of freedom
provides hard evidence in favor of the argument for freedom.
Digital Strategies for a Free Society
Daniel Anthony Sponsored by Atlas Network | MARYLAND A
Great ideas require great strategies to communicate effectively. This session will cover
the leatest in social media platforms, harnessing web traffic, effective calls to action,
viral videos, memes.
The Second Amendment: A Universal Human Right
Dr. Stephen P. Halbrook Sponsored by The Independent Institute | MARYLAND B
The pendulum of the recognition and the destruction of the right to keep and bear
arms expresses phenomena of freedom and tyranny throughout history. Rooted in the
American founding as a reaction to British attempts to disarm the colonists, the right
was extended to freed slaves by the Fourteenth Amendment. The disarming of political
opponents and the Jews was a key element of Hitler’s dictatorship and the Holocaust.
The Libertarian University
Zachary Caceras & Sara Sanchez Sponsored by Universidad Francisco Marroquin
| MARYLAND C
Checking out a book at the Ludwig von Mises Library, going to a conference in the
Milton Friedman Auditorium (or the F.A. Hayek Auditorium), enjoying a coffee in the
Adam Smith Plaza, and so much more! This panel will let you know how you can go
to school here and all the projects we have! The mission of Universidad Francisco
Marroquin is to teach and disseminate the ethical, legal, and economic principles
of a society of free and responsible persons.
21 | ISFLC 2015
Porn, Pot, Pistols & the Politics of Payments
Mark Calabria Sponsored by Cato Institute | WASHINGTON 5
For almost every transaction you make, from buying a new pair of jeans to
downloading your favorite song, a complex payment system stands between you
and the merchant. Historically that system has been dominated by both the largest
banks and the federal government. Via its control over the payments system, the
federal government has increasingly attempted to limit your access to certain
merchants, driving many of those merchants out of business. BitCoin and other altcurrencies offer an alternative payments system, not currently under the control of
either government or the big banks.
Women For Liberty International
Greta Kasatkina | WASHINGTON 6
Female representatives of Women For Liberty explain how and why they
started the international Women For Liberty movement. The panel will include
representatives from Africa, Europe, South Asia, Latin America and North America.
How to Build a Career as a Libertarian Writer
Jared Meyer, Rachel Burger, Matthew La Corte, Vera Kichanova, moderated by
Casey Given Sponsored by Alumni For Liberty | ROOSEVELT 4
You spend countless hours in your free time advocating for liberty, so why not
make it your job? Join this panel of young libertarian writers to learn how to build
a career in journalism or policy. Hosted by Young Voices, the breakout will include
information on how you can get published in prominent media outlets through
Students For Liberty’s public relations project.
Objectivism: Values and Virtues
William R. Thomas Sponsored by The Atlas Society | ROOSEVELT 5
Ayn Rand’s “Virtue of Selfishness” is a morality that places ethics on a factual
footing. Learn how a love of freedom and achievement derives from a basic
commitment to one’s own life and happiness. Learn why flourishing requires virtue,
and what kind of virtue it requires.
5:00–6:00 pm. . . . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 6
Economic Freedom for the Least of These:
A Christian Perspective on Poverty and Markets
Anne Bradley, Art Lindsley & Elise Amyx Sponsored by Institute for Faith, Work &
Economics | DELAWARE A
Christians have different, and often-conflicting, opinions about the most effective
and biblical way to help the poor. While much progress has been made toward
poverty alleviation, other well-intentioned efforts have led Christians to support
policies that are not only ineffective but leave the most vulnerable in an even
worse situation. Learn more about the ongoing debate and why so many Christian
economists, theologians, and practitioners today are making the case for markets
and trade as the world’s best hope for alleviating poverty.
ISFLC 2015 | 22
Should We Abolish Criminal Law?
David Friedman Sponsored by Institute for Humane Studies | DELAWARE B
Modern legal systems use two systems, criminal law and tort law, to do essentially
the same work—impose costs on those who impose costs on others. Is there any
good reason to have both? Could criminal law be abolished and tort law expanded
to replace it, what problems might arise in such a system, how could they be dealt
with, and would the change be an improvement?
Full Repeal: Replacing the War on Drugs with Sensible Policies
Betty Aldworth & Stacia Cosner Sponsored by Students for Sensible Drug Policy |
MARYLAND A
For nearly two decades, SSDP has advocated for an end to drug prohibition and the
devastating drug war. But what do sensible drug policies really look like? This panel
will confront trends in taxation and regulation for cannabis in legal US markets,
discuss the government-managed alternatives frequently advocated for most other
drugs, and engage the audience in exploring sensible policies for a post-prohibition
era.
Litigating for Liberty: FIRE’s Stand Up For Speech Initiative
Greg Lukianoff Sponsored by FIRE | MARYLAND B
Over the past six months, FIRE has waged a proactive campaign to defend student
free speech. The Stand Up For Speech Litigation Project has already won major
cases at three colleges, dramatically altering the landscape of free speech on
campus and sending a clear warning to would-be censors. Is your school next?
Find out how bad censorship has gotten, and learn what you can do to stand up for
speech.
The End of Doom
Ron Bailey Sponsored by Reason | MARYLAND C
Ron Bailey’s new 2015 book called The End of Doom rebukes the health and
environmental alarmism of too many pundits in America. With falling cancer
rates, reduced costs of clean energy, population stability, and innovative cures to
pollution Bailey offers a balanced and hopeful vision of humanity’s future.
Tools of the trade from the biggest free-market grassroots organization in
America, AFP
Molly Mottram, David Fladeboe, Akash Chougule and moderator Heather Browning
Sponsored by Americans for Prosperity | WASHINGTON 5
Teaming up with Americans for Prosperity is the greatest chance to match your
vision for the country with the most sophisticated operation on the right. Our
activists are able to utilize the best door-to-door canvassing apps, seamless phone
banking from home, and opportunities to make sure those in the capitols across
the country hear from people like you. If you want to be positioned to beat the
sophisticated progressive outfits and shape our nation in 2015 and beyond, AFP is
the place to go.
23 | ISFLC 2015
Outside-the-Box Activism
Sponsored by Students For Liberty | WASHINGTON 6
Tired of the same old activism ideas? Time to go outside the box! This session
features top North American student activists discussing dynamic new activism
ideas to supercharge your influence on campus and spread liberty like never
before!
Job Hunting 101
Sponsored by Alumni For Liberty | ROOSEVELT 4
Your first job hunt can be an overwhelming experience. This session focuses on
practical advice on preparing, searching, applying for and landing your next job
including tips on resumes, cover letters, interviews and general do’s and don’ts of
the job hunt. Moderated by SFL VP Clark Ruper.
Myths about Ayn Rand and Objectivism
William R. Thomas Sponsored by The Atlas Society | ROOSEVELT 5
Is Objectivism cold and heartless? Was Ayn Rand for the rich and against the poor?
Is Objectivism elitist? These and other common myths about Ayn Rand’s thought are
discussed and debunked.
6:15–7:15 pm. . . . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 7
Incarceration Nation: Police militarization and prohibition
Major Neill Franklin, Mike Riggs, Tim Lynch, moderated by Dr. Will Ruger
Sponsored by Young Americans for Liberty | DELAWARE A
Each day’s news brings new stories of militarized police brutality, often in
connection with the drug war. Join movement leaders as they discuss overcriminalization and the negative effects of prohibition on society.
Immigration Restrictions: A Solution in Search of a Problem
Bryan Caplan Sponsored by Institute for Humane Studies | DELAWARE B
Immigration laws heavily restrict foreigner’s freedom to work, travel, and reside.
Are there any decent arguments – libertarian or otherwise – in favor of such laws?
Caplan covers all the major rationales for restricting immigration, and concludes
libertarians should not only favor open borders, but make this issue their top
priority.
How to Advance Liberty: The Secrets to Winning Hearts & Changing Minds
Bob Ewing Sponsored by FEE | MARYLAND A
What skills and tactics can you apply right now that will exponentially increase
your influence, empowering you to win hearts and change minds? Award-winning
communications expert Bob Ewing shares the secrets of his success and teaches
you how to immediately and effectively advance liberty in your own sphere.
ISFLC 2015 | 24
What The NSA Isn’t Telling You About the Federal Reserve, Marijuana
Legalization and Taylor Swift: Gen-Y journalists fight for a free society
Katherine Timpf, Yaël Ossowski, Bill McMorris, moderated by Rachel Swaffer
Sponsored by Franklin Center | MARYLAND B
Young journalists are breaking away from the pack and leading a new wave of
online media, based on principles over party politics. Join rising stars Kat Timpf, Bill
McMorris, and Yaël Ossowski for a lively conversation on the future of media, jumpstarting a career in journalism, and sticking it to the man—hosted by Watchdog.org!
Investing in the Environment and Humanity
Holly Fretwell Sponsored by PERC | MARYLAND C
Does development hurt or hinder environmental quality? You can throw around
terms like “Kuznets Curve” and “Tragedy of the Commons,” but are you equipped
to help a market skeptic understand how property rights resolve environmental
conflict? After this session, you’ll be able to articulate how secure property and
free markets enhance environmental quality.
Liberty Art Gala
Hosted by Jeffrey Tucker Sponsored by Liberty.me Create | WASHINGTON 3
Come celebrate the launch of Liberty.me Create with Jeffrey Tucker. Watch as
libertarian artists perform their creative work, such as music and slam poetry.
I am David Boaz, Executive Vice President of the Cato Institute and author
of THE LIBERTARIAN MIND: Ask Me Anything
David Boaz Sponsored by Cato Institute | WASHINGTON 5
David Boaz is the executive vice president of the Cato Institute. Through his 30
years at Cato and his earlier libertarian activities, he has seen how the ideas of
liberty can shape politics and civil society. His own writings on the topic, especially
The Libertarian Mind and The Libertarian Reader, have introduced many people to
the philosophy of libertarianism. He will field questions from the audience on any
related topic.
Leaving a Legacy of Liberty
Sponsored by Students For Liberty | WASHINGTON 6
Do you want to transform your campus? Hear from SFL leaders who have done just
that! This session will break down the basics of activism, leadership, and strategy
to bring on new members, find new leaders, and liberate your campus.
25 | ISFLC 2015
Vote for Yourself
Isaac Morehouse & T.K. Coleman Sponsored by Praxis | ROOSEVELT 4
Your power to change the world isn’t based on getting political actors to pay
attention to you nor is it something you only get to display every once in awhile
when there’s an election for you to participate in. You can do things as an individual
every single day to contribute to a freer society. In this talk, we’ll show you how
you can “vote for yourself” by adopting practices, building habits, and developing a
mindset that can create changes starting now.
Our Fantastic Non-Fiction Techno-Future, or Can Libertarians Live Forever?
Edward Hudgins Sponsored by The Atlas Society | ROOSEVELT 5
Incredible revolutions are underway in medicine, transportation, and robotics that
could surpass the information revolution in their impact in our world. And a liveextension and human-enhancement transhumanist technologies could mean you’ll
live forever! But these revolutions could be snuffed out by the wrong philosophy.
A moral revolution of reason and achievement is necessary if the future is to be a
bright dream come true.
IF YOU CARE
ABOUT
FREEDOM,
reason
IS YOUR
MUST-READ
MAGAZINE.
Go to reason.com
and click SUBSCRIBE
ISFLC 2015 | 26
VISIT THE
ART
i n r o o m WA S H I N G T O N 3 a l l w e e k e n d
Featuring work from artists around the world
And join us for the LIBERTY ART GALA
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14th
6:15 - 7:15 pm
hosted by JEFFREY TUCKER
ATTENTION
FILMMAKERS!
The Moving Picture Institute offers paid internships
to talented, pro-freedom filmmakers.
We place interns in major production companies
and on the sets of MPI film projects.
Visit TheMPI.org and apply to
MPI’s Hollywood Career Launch
program today!
27 | ISFLC 2015
GAIN VALUABLE SKILLS
Attend the Atlas Network
sessions at ISFLC.
Tom G. Palmer, Atlas Network Executive Vice President
for International Programs & Cato Institute Senior Fellow
Main Stage: Self-Control or State Control? Why Personal
Responsibility Is Radical, Subversive, and Cool
Breakout: Public Speaking: Turning Foes Into Friends
Daniel Anthony, Atlas Network Vice President of
Marketing and Communications
Breakout: Digital Strategies for a Free Society
www.AtlasNetwork.org
Atlas Network is proud to partner with
Students for Liberty to advance the growth
of student chapters all over the world.
International Students: Pitch your next
student campaign and earn $$$ at our
fundraising workshop February 14.
ISFLC 2015 | 28
SUNDAY
9:30-10:00 am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coffee Service | Exhibit Hall A & Washington 3
Limited Quantities: First-Come, First-Served
10:00-11:00 am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session 8 | Lobby & Exhibition Hall Levels
11:15-12:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President Vicente Fox
Marriott Ballroom
12:00-1:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deirdre McCloskey
Sponsored by The Institute for Humane Studies
Marriott Ballroom
1:00 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closing Remarks
Marriott Ballroom
SUNDAY BREAKOUT SESSION
10:00–11:00 am. . . . . . . BREAKOUT SESSION 8
Voting or reading: How do we win?
Jack Hunter & Jeffrey Tucker Sponsored by Young Americans for Liberty | DELAWARE A
This is the hottest debate of ISFLC every year: Is it better to advance liberty through
education or engaging in the political process? Join Jack Hunter and Jeffrey Tucker as
they weigh the pros and cons of each tactic in the war for a free society.
Activism through Academia: Life in the Ivory Tower
Phil Magness, Nigel Ashford & Mario Villarreal-Diaz Sponsored by Institute for
Humane Studies | DELAWARE B
Are you interested in advancing classical liberal ideas at the forefront of the intellectual
discussion? Is activism alone not enough for you? Come find out what it takes to
succeed in graduate school, and how making an intellectual case for a free society
in the university can be a viable and fulfilling career path for classical liberals and
libertarians.
Communicating Liberty Panel Discussion
T.K. Coleman, Steve Horwitz & Abby Hall Sponsored by FEE | MARYLAND A
Are you interested in advancing freedom in your community? Join this panel to discover
how to best connect with new audiences on a personal level and the key elements of
classical liberalism.
29 | ISFLC 2015
Leading Liberty: How to Join the Movement’s Premiere Leadership Program
Sponsored by Students For Liberty | MARYLAND B
Learn the ins-and-outs of the reputable Campus Coordinator Program from SFL’s staff
and top leaders.
How Libertarians Go On the Offensive
Wes Benedict Sponsored by The Libertarian Party | MARYLAND C
After a Q&A on how to get involved with the Libertarian Party, we’ll introduce the
media techniques at the heart of our strategy to drive the conversation towards
cutting government and advancing liberty, not just defending against more government
growth. Attendees get a free Libertarian Party T-shirt and the book “Introduction to the
Libertarian Party” by Wes Benedict.
Telling the Liberty Tale: Storytelling Competition
Nicole Lough Sponsored by Students For Liberty | WASHINGTON 3
Stories matter! This event is a storytelling competition that will last for 1 hour with 2
rounds. Storytellers, previously selected by application, have 3 to 8 minutes to tell their
story of individual liberty.
Libertarians and Foreign Policy: Why Can’t We All Just Get Along?
Chris Preble Sponsored by Cato Institute | WASHINGTON 6
Adam Smith taught that “peace, easy taxes and a tolerable administration of justice”
were the essential ingredients of good government, and most libertarians agree on
those basic elements. But libertarians do sometimes disagree when these limited
governments turn their attention abroad. When, if ever, does the non-aggression
principle for individuals yield to the principle of self-defense for nation-states? And
what role, if any, does the minimalist libertarian state have in advancing liberty abroad?
In this session, we will explore the nature of this debate, and offer some solutions for
bridging the gap.
Austrian Economics and Ayn Rand
William R. Thomas Sponsored by The Atlas Society | ROOSEVELT 4
As Ludwig von Mises explained, economic theory assumes a “subjective” value
theory: that people ultimately act based on their preferences. Ayn Rand defended an
“objective” value theory and attacked philosophical subjectivism. This session explains
how economics relates to philosophy and how subjective economic value relates to
objective moral values. Is economics “value-free?” Is economic calculation a fallacy?
* Note: Each session is organized by the sponsoring organization listed. The ideas presented in each session are not
necessarily those held by other organizations at the ISFLC or Students For Liberty. In the spirit of open discourse and
learning we hope that participants will benefit from the variety of viewpoints presented at this conference.
ISFLC 2015 | 30
“It's the hardest thing in the world—
to do what we really want. And it takes
the greatest kind of courage.” —Ayn Rand
Student Opportunities at
The Atlas Society
●
●
●
●
●
Visit The Atlas Society’s table at ISFLC15 to
win a contest for $1000!!!
See our speakers at ISFLC15 in Roosevelt 5
Scholarships to The Atlas Summit, June 17-21
in New Hampshire. See atlassociety.org.
Scholarships to many liberty events.
Atlas University—online courses in
Objectivism & interactive webinars.
31 | ISFLC 2015
What is The Atlas Society?
The Atlas Society is a thinktank that promotes
Objectivism, the philosophy
founded by Ayn Rand, author
of Atlas Shrugged, The
Fountainhead, and The Virtue
of Selfishness. Objectivism is a
philosophy of reason,
individualism, achievement,
and freedom.
Come to The Atlas Summit!
The Atlas Summit is The Atlas Society’s annual
event for Objectivist ideas and community. The
2015 Summit is June 17-21 in New Hampshire.
Combine it with your trip to Porc Fest! Attendance
is open to all; scholarships available to students.
Engage The Atlas Society!
See our speakers at ISFLC15
Visit www.atlassociety.org.
Like “The Atlas Society”
Follow @TheAtlasSociety
ISFLC 2015 | 32
SPONSORS
Students For Liberty would like to thank all of our sponsors and exhibitors who
have made this conference possible. We encourage all attendees to visit their
booths and websites to learn more about the opportunities and resources they
have available for pro-liberty students and alumni.
PARTNER
The Atlas Society
The Cato Institute
The Institute for Humane Studies
Young Americans For Liberty
GOLD
SILVER
The Atlas Network
FreedomWorks
Google
BRONZE
Americans for Tax Reform
Foundation for Individual Rights in Education
Franklin Center
The Institute for Faith, Work & Economics
Institute for Justice
Liberty Fund
PERC
Praxis
Students for Sensible Drug Policy
The Moving Picture Institute
Universidad Francisco Marroquin
The Advocates for Self Government
The Mises Institute
The American Civil Liberties Union
AgainstCronyCapitalism.org
Austrian Economics Center
Benjamin Rush Institute
The Center for a Stateless Society
The Free State Project
The Future of Freedom Foundation
A Generation Empowered
Generation Opportunity
GenFKD
The Heartland Institute
The Charles Koch Institute
FEE
The Independent Institute
The Libertarian Party
Reason Magazine
Drug Policy Alliance
America’s Future Foundation
Compassion & Choices
The Competitive Enterprise Institute
The Fund for American Studies
Graduate Student Programs at the
Mercatus Center at George Mason
University
The Institute of Economic Affairs
Liberty.me
The Libre Initiative
Americans For Prosperity
Mises Institute
EXHIBITOR
Ladies of Liberty Alliance
The Institute for Liberal Studies
The Libertia Society
The Manhattan Institute
The Marijuana Policy Project
The Reason, Individualism, Freedom
Institute
The Republican Liberty Caucus
The Objective Standard
5 Hour Sample LLC
Votes Not For Sale
The Tax Foundation
33 | ISFLC 2015
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Reaction was
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Spring 2015 Regional SSDP Conferences
PACIFIC: March 14-15
California State University Fullerton
MID-ATLANTIC: March 27-28
American University
MIDWEST: April 3-5
University of Michigan
NO
NORTHEAST: April 11-12
University of Connecticut
SOUTHEAST: April 18-19
College of Charleston
Fullerton, CA
Washington, DC
Ann Arbor, MI
Storrs, CT
Charleston, SC
email us today for more info
info@TheAdvocates.org
ssdp.org/events
ISFLC 2015 | 34
The Independent Institute
Pioneering Ideas on Liberty Since 1986
s
Insightful Publications: Discover and
Understand the ideas that drive the freedom
movement. From foundational books like
Robert Higgs’s Crisis and Leviathan, to recent
groundbreakers like Anthony Gregory’s
The Power of Habeas Corpus in America,
our publications give the knowledge you
need and put you ahead of the rest.
Challenge of Liberty Seminars: Engage with
others this summer in Denver or San Francisco.
Join leading scholars for cutting-edge lectures
and discussions, and have a blast with new
friends in the liberty movement.
Hands-on Internships: Advance professionally
and make a difference. Gain valuable experience
and make the connections you need to get
ahead in the liberty movement interning at
a leading think tank.
Learn more at independent.org/students or stop by our booth!
Find us on Facebook and Twitter!
facebook.com/independentinstitute
Independent Student Network:
facebook.com/independentstudentnetwork
100 Swan Way, Oakland, CA 94621
T: (510) 632-1366 | www.independent.org
twitter.com/IndependentInst
35 | ISFLC 2015
You're worth
more than
college.
Take the SFL Straw
Poll located in the
Exhibit Hall & receive
a free item from the
SFL Store!
Spend ten months working
with entrepreneurs and
completing rigorous,
interdisciplinary coursework.
Theory meets experience.
www.discoverpraxis.com
prax•is (ˈpræk sɪs) n.,
1. the application or use of knowledge or
skills; practice, as distinguished from
theory.
ISFLC 2015 | 36
Liberty.me
CHRISTIANS HAVE
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Come by our booth to
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USE COUPON CODE
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37 | ISFLC 2015
ATTENTION
STUDENTS!
FREE
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Just visit our
booth to sign up!
Please also Join Us for our
ECONOMICS
WITH
ATTITUDE
“The best students in our
program find our ‘economics
with attitude’ contagious,
and go on to stellar careers
in research, teaching,
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—Professor Peter Boettke
Director of the F.A. Hayek Program for
Advanced Study in Philosophy, Politics,
and Economics at the Mercatus Center
Mercatus Graduate Student Fellowships
provide financial assistance, research
experience, and hands-on training for
graduate students in the social sciences.
Breakout Session
HOW
LIBERTARIANS
GO ON THE
OFFENSIVE
Session attendees will
receive a FREE copy of
Wes Benedict’s book
Introduction to the
Libertarian Party
and a
FREE
LIBERTARIAN
T-SHIRT TOO!
Paid for by the Libertarian National Committee, Inc.
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.
Learn more and apply at Grad.Mercatus.org
www.LP.org
ISFLC 2015 | 38
Educational Programs in
Washington, D.C. and Abroad!
Internship Programs in Washington, D.C.
Coursework in Free-market Economic
Education at George Mason University
Learn how property rights and markets
restore depleted fisheries, recover
wildlife populations, resolve land-use
conflicts, and more: perc.org/SFL
Study Abroad Programs in
Prague, Hong Kong and Santiago
visit www.TFAS.org to learn more
Property and Environment Research Center
Bozeman, Montana
39 | ISFLC 2015
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LIBERTY FUND
TOCQUEVILLE SPECIAL:
Purchase Tocqueville’s Voyages and/or
Democracy in America at 50% off and you will receive a complimentary copy of
The Making of Tocqueville’s Democracy in America by
James T. Schleifer.
ISFL 2015: ALL DISPLAY COPIES AT 50% OFF!
Visit the Liberty Fund table this weekend for all of our great titles at an
affordable price!
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Offer expires March 31, 2015.
ISFLC 2015 | 40
Where
campus
censorship
goes to die.
thefire.org
41 | ISFLC 2015
college scholarship
in memory of
brad peterson
JUMPSTART
YOUR CAREER AS A
LIBERTARIAN
PUNDIT.
Please apply at
www.BPMSF.org
before March 25th.
ISFLC Breakout Session:
The Drug Policy Alliance thanks
Students For Liberty for their
commitment to drug policies
grounded in science, health,
fiscal responsibility and freedom.
"How to Build a Career
as a Libertarian Writer"
Saturday, February 14
3:45 - 4:45 PM
Roosevelt 4
YoungVoicesAdvocates.com
ISFLC 2015 | 42
A B O U T T O G R A D U AT E ?
GET READY FOR YOUR NEXT STEP.
STAY CONNECTED
GIVE BACK
JUMPSTART YOUR CAREER
Join the Senior Gift Drive to get a full year AFL membership for just $10.
See the schedule for the AFL career building breakouts.
IB
ER
TY
LEARN MORE AT THE ALUMNI FOR LIBERTY TABLE
OR AT
ALUMNIFORLIBERTY.ORG
AL
UMNI FO
R
L