Interesting. I live in a place where libertarianism is a big deal. The motto of the Libertarian Party is "do whatever your want as long as you don't harm anyone or their property." Sounds good (and simple?) on paper, but it requires thinking about how one's activities will affect others. A lot of "libertarians" around here seem to forget that second part of the motto, though. So, their idea of freedom is skewed if not downright fantastical. The Wild West ethic seems to resonate with people, especially in rural places. Lots of room to make big mistakes. As our world becomes more crowded, though, those big places become smaller and the imperative to think about one's actions gets squeezed.
I was actually thinking a lot about liberalism. I think it's an admirable philosophy, but you have to take into account just what you say. Freedom is essential to be happy and prosper, but you must never forget that when you are free, your actions can affect others and you need to think about them. It is when you understand that freedom is a shared space that liberalism really makes sense.
Interesting. I live in a place where libertarianism is a big deal. The motto of the Libertarian Party is "do whatever your want as long as you don't harm anyone or their property." Sounds good (and simple?) on paper, but it requires thinking about how one's activities will affect others. A lot of "libertarians" around here seem to forget that second part of the motto, though. So, their idea of freedom is skewed if not downright fantastical. The Wild West ethic seems to resonate with people, especially in rural places. Lots of room to make big mistakes. As our world becomes more crowded, though, those big places become smaller and the imperative to think about one's actions gets squeezed.
How true, Sue!
I was actually thinking a lot about liberalism. I think it's an admirable philosophy, but you have to take into account just what you say. Freedom is essential to be happy and prosper, but you must never forget that when you are free, your actions can affect others and you need to think about them. It is when you understand that freedom is a shared space that liberalism really makes sense.