Saturday, November 10, 2007
Marginalized Libertarians
Being libertarian is not the best strategy for assimilating into this society. I know that is not exactly a startling revelation. Does that mean it is bad to be libertarian? I have no answer to that question, although I have seen the opinion of some ignoramuses on that matter recently. I do know some of the implications of libertarianism with regards to "fitting in". I can only generalize, and your experience may be much different from my observations.
Where do we part ways with the "mainstream" of society? Libertarians do not beg for our rights. We do not automatically bow to the "authorities", or suffer from "enforcer worship". We look behind the "laws" to see whether they have any legitimate foundation or not. Because of this, we may decide to not apply for permits or licenses. Our "papers" may not be in order. This causes many of us to be "outlaws" (as opposed to "criminals"), even if we are scrupulously honest and kind.
We are often seen as uncompromising in our views. We do not often go along with the crowd, whether it is in our opinions on wars or public programs, or in what we see as the main problem with society. Our principles may limit which jobs we will agree to accept; which employers we will work for. I have even seen us categorized incorrectly as racists because we don't obsess over race. We are thought to be uncaring because we oppose welfare, and think all people are capable of running their own lives so they can retain their dignity. For holding the most kind philosophy, we are seen as cruel. For holding the most fair position, we are believed to be selfish. For being the most inclusive, we are called separatists. The world is truly topsy-turvy. Maybe it is not desirable to "fit in" after all.
Where do we part ways with the "mainstream" of society? Libertarians do not beg for our rights. We do not automatically bow to the "authorities", or suffer from "enforcer worship". We look behind the "laws" to see whether they have any legitimate foundation or not. Because of this, we may decide to not apply for permits or licenses. Our "papers" may not be in order. This causes many of us to be "outlaws" (as opposed to "criminals"), even if we are scrupulously honest and kind.
We are often seen as uncompromising in our views. We do not often go along with the crowd, whether it is in our opinions on wars or public programs, or in what we see as the main problem with society. Our principles may limit which jobs we will agree to accept; which employers we will work for. I have even seen us categorized incorrectly as racists because we don't obsess over race. We are thought to be uncaring because we oppose welfare, and think all people are capable of running their own lives so they can retain their dignity. For holding the most kind philosophy, we are seen as cruel. For holding the most fair position, we are believed to be selfish. For being the most inclusive, we are called separatists. The world is truly topsy-turvy. Maybe it is not desirable to "fit in" after all.
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