Are Libertarians the True Progressives in Economic Matters?
Progressivism, in the realm of economics, often conjures images of government intervention and collective action. However, the narrative of libertarianism and progress in the economic sphere is not as straightforward. Libertarians argue that true progress is rooted in the principles of freedom and the free market, rather than government intervention. Let's explore this paradoxical view.
Understanding the True Progressives
The term "progressive" traditionally refers to policies and ideologies aimed at advancing societal well-being through government action. However, libertarians believe that progress should be measured by the logical application of fundamental principles, rather than by the outcomes of political interventions.
Free Market Advocates
To libertarians, the free market is the most logical and effective means of ensuring economic equality. They argue that the capitalist system provides the greatest opportunities for individuals to thrive and succeed. According to them, the free market ensures that resources are allocated based on supply and demand, not political mandates. This aligns with the principle that all individuals have the right to pursue their own economic interests freely.
Individual Liberty and Progress
The concept of individual liberty is central to the libertarian philosophy. Libertarians see individual liberty as the cornerstone of progress, as it allows individuals to make their own choices and direct their economic resources in ways that benefit them and, by extension, society. In their view, government should not interfere with these choices, as this often leads to inefficiencies and injustices.
Historical Context
The historical evolution of economic systems provides a lens through which to understand libertarian progressivism. For much of human history, the economies of small tribes were largely communal and socialistic. As societies grew larger and more complex, more advanced economic systems emerged, including capitalism. This shift is seen by libertarians as a significant marker of progress.
Economic Libertarians vs. Progressives
Economic libertarians like Ayn Rand emphasize the importance of self-interest in a free market. Rand advocates for a laissez-faire capitalist system where all actors pursue their own interests, believing that this, in turn, results in the greater good for society as a whole. In contrast, progressive utilitarians believe in government's role in ensuring the greatest good for the greatest number, even if this requires reducing individual liberties.
Slavery and Progress
The historical example of the pro-slave states during the American Civil War highlights the contradiction between libertarian views and those of progress. States' rights libertarians argued against federal intervention to abolish slavery, viewing it as a violation of economic and individual liberties. The Emancipation Proclamation, while a progressive step in the fight against slavery, led to a significant economic disruption that libertarians would oppose due to its implication of coercive force.
The Role of Government
Libertarians argue that government, by its very nature, is ill-suited for the task of bringing about progress. Government relies on the use of violent force, which is inherently coercive. Libertarians believe that true progress must involve voluntary cooperation and the embracing of democratic processes that facilitate free market economies. They argue that government actions often lead to distortions in market dynamics, creating obstacles to real progress.
Economic Progress Through Capital Accumulation
Demanding genuine economic progress, libertarians advocate for capital accumulation through investment in technology and productive capital. They believe that this is the only viable path to ending poverty, ensuring affordable healthcare, and fostering a more tolerant and accepting society. Government intervention, they argue, often leads to economic crises and setbacks.
Conclusion
While labeling libertarians as the true progressives may be an oversimplification, the underlying principles they uphold do align with a philosophy of progress that values freedom, self-determination, and voluntary cooperation over government coercion. Libertarians argue that true progress is achieved through logical and ethical economic systems, leading them to sometimes label traditional progressivism as 'Regressivism."