At a glance
Libertarianism prioritizes individual freedom and strong limits on coercive authority. This entry focuses on its common contemporary market-oriented, right-libertarian form.
Core principles
- Self-ownership; voluntary exchange; property rights; freedom of association; limited state power; opposition to paternalistic coercion.
Origins & development
The word also has an older socialist and anarchist history. Modern market libertarianism developed from classical liberalism and twentieth-century debates over property and state intervention.
Economic outlook
Right-libertarians favor private ownership and market allocation, often opposing extensive redistribution. Left-libertarians differ over natural resources, initial ownership and economic equality.
Society & government
Personal choice and civil liberties are emphasized. Many reject military intervention and intrusive moral legislation, although constitutional arrangements and cultural attitudes vary.
Variations & related traditions
Minarchism retains a minimal state; anarcho-capitalism rejects the state. Libertarian socialism is a distinct anti-capitalist tradition with its own guide.
Debates & criticisms
Debates concern unequal resources, public goods and the boundary between voluntary agreement and coercion. Property-rights commitments can conflict with majoritarian demands for redistribution.