| sperrico87 said: Nah, that's not liberal. That's Libertarian. Big difference. And Libertarianism was the basis of the Republican Party until it was taken over in the 1960's by the so-called "conservatives". Myself and others, such as Ron Paul, represent the Old Right, the party of Robert Taft. Liberals believe in FORCING people to give others what they think they are deserved. They believe in big, over-reaching government. Much the way modern conservatives do, just in different areas. Conservatives believe in a big overseas military empire. Liberals believe in providing "free" health insurance to everyone, and taxing people without any limit. Libertarians are quite the opposite. The smallest government possible is the best government. No government interference in any markets, for any reason. Little or no taxation. Truly free trade. No aggressive war or military force unless we are under immenent threat and we have no alternative. Absolutely no regulations on a person's personal behavior or habits, so long at that person isn't harming someone else. So, I think you're right in that liberals agree with libertarians on a small number of issues such as legalizing drugs, but we are polar opposites on economic or social issues. We agree typically with Republicans on economics or taxation, but are polar opposites on foreign policy and drug laws. It might be better if I labeled myself and other pro-life libertarians as "Minarchists". Not sure if you're familiar with that term or not. Because, technically speaking, someone who is 100% absolute Libertarian would be pro-abortion. I do find philosophy fascinating though, so feel free to disagree or agree. I'll reply. |
Hello, fellow Ron Paul supporter! =)
I like to use the Nolan Chart when explaining the differences between political views, such as this one:
http://www.goodandbadnews.com/images/politicalspace1.jpg
It's sad that freedom has been chopped into pieces in the rhetoric of the left- and right-wing advocates. And both the left- and right-wing politicians are converging towards big government philosophies especially for the past few decades. Unified, they truly represent the worst of both parties, and a totalitarian government is closer than ever.
Now, more than ever, is really the time for the libertarian approach to strike a balance - to legalise freedom for the people and limit government power as accordingly in the Constitution!
P.S. This is coming from a Christian who knows of the extremely high moral standards of God, yet knows that it is not through government legislation that these must be enforced upon the people. But rather, it is through the church and the Gospel that these values, which follows the knowledge of God, be promoted (not forced) with love, so that any changes evident in the people/society are from their own willingness within them (and upon the strength given to them by God), and not just an outward compliance due to fear of breaking laws.
My website: Precocious Ragamuffin
