Tags
Bible, Christian Living, Christianity, Conservatism, Culture, Freedom, Government, Jesus Christ, Liberalism, Libertarianism, Liberty, Philosophy, Politics, Theology
As has been noted elsewhere, I am a recent ‘convert’ to the political philosophy of Libertarianism. This has raised questions from some of my more conservative Christian friends as to why I would embrace a political philosophy that advocates for (among other things) drug legalization and gay marriage. How could a Christian, a conservative, Bible-believing, evangelical, embrace Libertarianism? I have written elsewhere on the compatibility of Christianity and Libertarianism, but I want to expand on that a bit here and suggest that not only is Libertarianism compatible with Christianity, but Libertarianism is the only political philosophy that makes sense for a Christian to hold. That’s a pretty bold statement to make, and I’m sure I will get some push back for it. All I ask is that if you disagree with me, please take the time to discern why you disagree with me; examine your theological and political presuppositions and make sure your politics agrees with your theology. I have often said on this blog that American Christians are far too American and not enough Christian when it comes to social and political discussions.
Let’s begin with what Libertarianism is not. Libertarianism is not to be confused with Libertinism. Libertinism is a moral philosophy, not a political philosophy. A Libertine is one who essentially operates without moral principles, especially in matters of sexual behavior. A Libertine typically rejects accepted opinions on matters of religion; they are sometimes referred to as free thinkers (an oxymoron from a Christian worldview). Here is a good rule of thumb when considering Libertinism and Libertarianism: Most (if not all) Libertines are Libertarians, but not all Libertarians are Libertines. It is true that some Libertarians advocate for drug legalization and recognition of gay marriage, but not all. It is important to not confuse the two; when people do, in an attempt to argue against Libertarianism, they erect straw men and argue in a disingenuous manner.
