Are Libertarians liberal or conservative?

Answer 1

It really depends on the issue. They are for smaller government, a primarily conservative opinion, and for non-interference of government upon the rights of the individual to make decisions pertaining to their own lives- even harmful ones. In this case, they tread into more liberal social leanings such as legalized drug usage and homosexual marriage.

Answer 2

Libertarians don't fit into the over simplified political left/right classification scheme.

There is a political quiz on their web site where you can see how you score.

"The libertarian, or "classical liberal," perspective is that individual well-being, prosperity, and social harmony are fostered by "as much liberty as possible" and "as little government as necessary."

Unlike the Repubacrats the Libertarian party is actually based on principle not politics.

The following sums it up.

"that human ability to comprehend, adjudicate, and arrange the world around us is limited; that the only attainable goal is continuously to improve the conditions which enable individuals to achieve the personal best."

Whereas both the Republicans and Democrats hold the belief that :

"that certain people are capable of comprehending, adjudicating, and arranging the world around us; and that such people are called upon to guide all others toward an increasingly perfect and just world in which all desires will have been either eliminated or satisfied."

Both share this elitist attitude that they know whats best for everyone else. The difference is only the way they want to arrange your life. The Democrats want to decide who should have what and how much, (Social Security, Welfare etc) the republicans would leave that to the economy but they would tell you what you can do and ban what you can't have. ( Censorship, outlaw gambling, drugs, and other victimless crimes?).

Answer 3

Both and neither. They're just not that simple. The big thing about libertarianism is personal freedom and responsibility. You could view them as liberal since they are against state laws for marriage, drug laws, and anything that doesn't cause harm to other people. On the other hand they can be quite conservative, especially when it comes to taxation. Generally speaking, libertarians view taxes as anethma to freedom, and prefer user fees (like for licenses and such).

One thing about libertarianism is that it requires a large and efficient judiciary. SInce there'd be a whole lot less laws, it would be up to the court to decide a lot more cases, especially with difficult issues like pollution. Under the libertarian scheme, those harmed by pollution would sue the polluter, seeking compensation and/or correction of the trouble. Can you imagine the entire east coast suing mid-western power plants for acid rain?

Answer 4

Libertarians are neither. Unlike liberals or conservatives, Libertarians advocate a high degree of both personal and economic liberty. For example, Libertarians agree with conservatives about freedom in economic matters, so we're in favor of lowering taxes, slashing bureaucratic regulation of business, and charitable -- rather than government -- welfare. But Libertarians also agree with liberals on personal tolerance, so we're in favor of people’s right to choose their own personal habits and lifestyles.



In a sense, Libertarians “borrow” from both sides to come up with a logical and consistent whole -- but without the exceptions and broken promises of Republican and Democratic politicians. That's why we call ourselves the Party of Principle.

Answer 5

Libertarians are both and neither. Meaning, they are financially conservative, but socially liberal. They believe in lower taxes (or none at all), smaller government. But they also believe it's not any of the government's business to tell you how to live your life. They believe laws on crimes that don't hurt people should be overturned, like prostitution and most drug laws.

Answer 6

He is an ultra conservative under a liberal banner

Answer 7

Neither
Here is a website that explains Libertarianism
http://www.theihs.org/category.php/142.html

Answer 8

Neither. They're mostly moderates who want big government to stay out of their lives.

Answer 9

they are liberal because gays are more Conservative type.