I know that. It is why I use a lower case “l” and not an upper case “L” which may be construed as a member of the Libertarian party. I am a Liberal in the classic sense of the term i.e. Von Mises, Jefferson.
That said, there is still a big difference in saying you are for something, as the Libertarians do, and forcing it onto people as the liberals do. I am adamantly opposed to abortion but I am prepared to fight against it with out a governmental enforced ban. But certainly there should be nothing done to support it which is were the liberals are at. It would take a long explanation but I think ultimately a libertarian philosophy would free us up, along with a tremendous amount of resources, so that we could win the abortion fight at the hearts and mind level.
I am for open borders to a point but I am also for ending all welfare and enforcement of reasonable criminal laws. If someone comes here and either works or dies, lives peaceably or goes to jail (or deported forever) I am good with that. It is what was expected of my ancestors when they came here.
Same idea with drug laws. Use to your heart’s content but there will be no taxpayer funded rescue for you. And our laws will be enforced. Also since I am free I can refuse to employ a druggie, rent to them, or even refuse to sell them food.
Gay marriage is an oxymoron that I oppose but I find no need for Federal involvement in marriage. But balance this with this, if we were truly free you could have gay marriage but you would never have to hire, promote, live by or even associate with gays if you chose not to. Liberals say not only that they should marry but you WILL rent your apartment to them.
Freedom for a Liberal means someone is forced to pay for someone else’s activities and you are forced to pay for the collateral damage. That payment can be in wealth or restricted freedom. Libertarians say you are free but you must bear all the cost of exercising your freedom.
I cannot see much capital “R” that I support although I am for a republican form of government and not democracy. Let’s save that one for later.
Agreed.