by John Stock

Created on: March 24, 2009

"The Constitution is not neutral. It was designed to take the government off the backs of people." In saying this, Supreme Court Justice William Douglas spoke with the spirit of true American Liberalism. The American government was founded on a basis of Liberty and Freedom from the oppressive rule of the British Empire and thrived through the institution of limited government, both in economic affairs and personal liberties. As history progressed, the American laissez-faire and libertarian spirit slowly eroded as the government acquired more power and instituted more regulations on its citizens. Although still a minority,

the Libertarian party aims to once again "take the government off the backs of people" by limiting government and promoting Freedom, both for individuals and for the nation as a whole,
by reengaging in laissez faire economics, allowing for personal liberties, and limiting involvement in foreign affairs.

A market-driven economy is essential to maximize production, encourage development,
and lead to economic success. Libertarian economics embody this concept as it promotes the limit of government on economy. As long as the economy remains in the private sector,
upward mobility is always possible, thus increasing incentives for individuals to reconcile production with the needs and desires of the market. When this is achieved, the producers of goods and providers of services will optimize their revenue and the market's needs will be met,
thus benefiting business and consumers alike.

Opponents of the free market will say that it will inevitably result in corruption and oppression of the lower classes; however I believe it is evident that just the opposite occurs. Welfare economics restrain the lower class by limiting incentives to be productive and work towards a self-sustaining status. If the welfare system was at the very least limited and the taxes used to support said system were eliminated,
individuals from every socioeconomic levels would be encouraged to be productive and self-sufficient.

In addition to limited government in the economic realm, Libertarianism favors personal liberties and responsibility. The government's primary role should simply be to prevent a group or individual from infringing on the rights of others. Subscribers of this thought oppose the institution of victimless law statutes, such as drug, gambling, and prostitution laws. It is not up to the state to parent its citizens and prevent consenting adults from engaging in certain

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