libertarian

(adjective)

Libertarianism refers to the group of political philosophies that emphasize freedom, liberty, and voluntary association. Libertarians generally advocate a society with a government of small scope relative to most present day societies or no government whatsoever.

Related Terms

Examples of libertarian in the following topics:

  • The New Right

    • The first New Right (1955–1964) was centered around the libertarians, traditionalists, and anti-communists at William F.
    • In defining conservatism, Reagan said, "If you analyze it I believe the very heart and soul of conservatism is libertarianism.
    • The basis of conservatism is a desire for less government interference or less centralized authority or more individual freedom and this is a pretty general description also of what libertarianism is. " Reagan's views on government were influenced by Thomas Jefferson, especially his hostility to strong central governments.

  • Hoover and the Limits of Individualism

    • Himself a libertarian, Hoover's own rugged individualism may have resulted from his frustration with the unprecedented government involvement in the economy during World War I.

  • The Healthcare Plan of 1993

    • However, opposition to the reform plan was heavy from conservatives, libertarians, and the health insurance industry.
    • Conservatives, libertarians, the health insurance industry, and the conservative Heritage Foundation proceeded to campaign against the plan, criticizing it as being overly bureaucratic and restrictive of patient choice.

  • Woodrow Wilson and Race

    • An angered Wilson countered that the civil libertarian had insulted him, stating, “You have spoiled the whole cause for which you came,” before ending the meeting abruptly.

  • Assessing the Great Society

    • Another criticism of the Great Society is made by Libertarian economist Thomas Sowell, and his view is echoed by many.

  • Congressional Initiatives

    • Years later libertarians argued that Hoover's economics were statist .

  • Hoover's Efforts at Recovery

    • A libertarian, Hoover's own rugged individualism may have resulted from his frustration with the unprecedented government involvement in the economy during World War I.
    • Yet in spite of his personal, libertarian beliefs, Hoover still pursued policies aimed at pulling the country out of the Depression.

  • The Roosevelt Administration

    • Business regulations introduced at the time lived on until about 1975–85, when Libertarian ideas became ascendant.

  • Conclusion: Populism Resurgent

    • Two third party candidates have obtained enough ballot access to mathematically have a chance of winning the presidency and have been featured in major national polls: the Libertarian Party nominee, former Governor of New Mexico Gary Johnson, and the Green Party presumptive nominee Jill Stein.

  • The 2012 Presidential Election

    • The two other presidential candidates included Green Party nominee Jill Stein and Libertarian Party nominee, New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson.