There Are Two Types of People

I spend a lot of time dissecting political ideologies and their impact on our society. Over the course of this contemplation I have come to a conclusion: There are two types of people in this world, Libertarians and people that don’t yet realize they’re Libertarian. This might seem like an oversimplification, but it highlights the way core human values align with libertarian principles.

Universal Appeal of Libertarianism

Libertarianism, at its heart, champions individual liberty, limited government, and free markets. These principles resonate universally, even if someone doesn’t explicitly identify as a libertarian. The reason is simple: most people value their personal freedom and autonomy. They prefer making their own choices without undue interference from an overreaching government.

A Synthesis of Conservatism and Traditional Liberalism

Libertarianism incorporates the most productive elements of both conservatism and traditional liberalism, creating a robust and appealing ideological framework. From conservatism, libertarianism adopts a strong emphasis on free-market economics and the belief in limited government intervention. This economic freedom encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility, fostering a dynamic and prosperous society.

On the other hand, libertarianism shares with traditional liberalism a deep commitment to civil liberties and individual rights. Traditional liberalism, as it developed during the Enlightenment, advocated for personal freedoms, rule of law, and minimal government interference in personal lives. Libertarianism continues this legacy, advocating for the protection of individual rights and opposing authoritarian measures that infringe on personal autonomy.

The Authoritarian Trend of Modern Progressivism

In contrast, modern progressivism has increasingly breached into the realm of authoritarianism. While progressivism aims to address social inequalities and promote “social justice”, it often does so by expanding government power and control. This expansion can lead to significant infringements on individual freedoms and personal autonomy.

For example, progressive policies frequently involve extensive regulation of the economy and personal behavior. These regulations, while well-intentioned, stifle innovation, restrict personal choice, and create a dependency on government programs. Additionally, the push for social engineering and the imposition of certain social norms through government mandates can undermine the very freedoms progressivism claims to protect.

The principles of libertarianism align closely with our internalized desires for freedom and autonomy. By synthesizing the best elements of conservatism and traditional liberalism, libertarianism allows for the personal autonomy and authority over our own lives we all seek. Meanwhile, the authoritarian tendencies of modern progressivism highlight the importance of vigilance in protecting our individual liberties against overreach, and our need to protect social movements from corporate influence. As we navigate the increasingly polarized nuances of the modern political landscape, embracing libertarian principles may be the key to preserving the freedoms we hold dear.