Libertarianism

Written By Jonathan Milner

Libertarianism: an ideology that cherishes individual liberty and insists on minimal government, promoting a free market economy, a non-interventionist foreign policy, and an absence of regulation in moral, economic, and social life. An extreme laissez-faire political philosophy advocating only minimal state intervention in the lives of citizens. Or, as American Libertarians say in their party platform preamble, "we seek a world of liberty; a world in which all individuals are sovereign over their own lives and no one is forced to sacrifice his or her values for the benefit of others." You can take this nifty short Libertarian Quiz, but remember, the Libertarians made the quiz so it will push you in a certain direction, and they will decide how you score. Still, worth taking!

 
 

Questions

  1. Translate libertarianism into plain English.

  2. What are the two beliefs of libertarians in the US?

  3. Identify three policies libertarians would enact if they could.

  4. How do you most agree with libertarianism?

  5. What is libertarianism biggest beef with liberalism?

  6. Describe an example of libertarianism in current events:

  7. What emoji does the best job of representing the meaning of libertarian?

  8. In what ways is Donald J. Trump a Libertarian and in what ways is he not?

  9. If you were a Libertarian and had to choose between a generic Democrat and a Republican presidential candidate. Which would you most likely chose and why?

  10. Why do Libertarians generally favor legalization of many drugs?

Remember!

Now, let’s commit this term to our long-term memory. On a scrap piece of paper, take 10 or 20 seconds to draw libertarianism! Draw with symbols or stick figures if you wish. Nothing fancy. Don’t expect a masterpiece. No one else will see this but you. Look at your drawing. That’s all - now it’s downloaded into your memory. Destroy the piece of paper in a most delightful way.

Further Review

GoPo Glossary

Jonathan Milner

Civics Maven!

https://www.gopopro.com/
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