neither Left nor Right
Libertarians [...] are not to the Right or Left of authoritarians.They, as the human spirit they would free, ascend -- are above -- this degradation. Their position, if directional analogies are to be used, is up -- in the sense that vapor from a muck-heap rises to a wholesome atmosphere. If the idea of extremity is to be applied to a libertarian, let it be based on how extremely well he has shed himself of authoritarian beliefs.
Establish this concept of emerging, of freeing -- which is the meaning of libertarianism, and the golden-mean or "middle-of-the-road" theory becomes inapplicable. For there can be no half-way position between zero and infinity. It is absurd to suggest that there can be.
What simplified term should libertarians employ to distinguish themselves from the Moscow brand of "Leftists" and "Rightists"? I have not invented one but until I do I shall content myself by saying, "I am a libertarian," standing ready to explain the definition to anyone who seeks meaning instead of trademarks.
Neither Left Nor Right
Published in The Freeman: Ideas on Liberty - January 1956
by Leonard E. Read
1 Comments:
I essentially agree, and I've blogged on this subject before (one such post was called "Up-wingers Unite"). Libertarians are ultimately above the factions of authoritarians who label themselves as "left-wing" or "right-wing".
Despite this, there's no denying the fact that there are many different types of libertarians, and some of them have opinions on certain matters that others may want nothing to do with. Because of this, certain groups may see some value in distinguishing themselves from the types of libertarianism that they find objectionable.
Those who are increasingly using the term "left-libertarian" fall into this category. Some of them don't want to be affiliated or otherwise lumped into the same category as the LP. Others may want to distance themselves from the "libertarians" who support US militarism.
If anything, the term "left-libertarian", in my mind, challenges the notion held by most people that all libertarians are radical right-wingers. I absolutely, positively, do not want to be portrayed that way! That is one of the reasons why I'm open to the term "left-libertarian".
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