Re: CONFESSIONS OF A CHEERFUL LIBERTARIAN By David Brin

From: hal@finney.org
Date: Sun Dec 03 2000 - 13:54:43 MST


Chris Russo writes:
> To be clear: Are you also espousing this "Libertarian goals through
> the Democratic party" philosophy?
>
> If so, could you explain a little more in detail about how promoting
> the political party that believes in bigger government, higher income
> taxes, a de-emphasis on personal property, less personal
> responsibility, and severe gun control will obtain the benefits of
> the party that believes in minimal government, no income taxes,
> stronger property rights, higher individual responsibility, and
> protected gun rights?

I want to take issue with the implications that Libertarians are
closer to Republicans than to Democrats. In my (admittedly limited)
attendance at Libertarian Party meetings I found people who had come
to the Libertarian position from both ends of the political spectrum.
There were as many "liberal" Libertarians who would tell you that
Republicans are the epitome of evil for their religiously-motivated
stances against drugs and homosexuality as there were "conservative"
Libertarians who complain about Democrats as you have done above.

The fact is, neither party is anywhere close to the Liberatarian position
and it is pointless to say that Libertarians slumming in the mainstream
ought to vote Republican rather than Democratic.

Hal



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