Libertarianism
Libertarianism (Latin: liber, "free") is a collection of political philosophies that uphold liberty. Libertarians seek to maximize autonomy and freedom of choice, emphasizing political freedom, voluntary association, and the primacy of individual judgment.
This is a word that is thrown around quite frequently here, so I included the Wikipedia definition. Now I myself would eschew thus categorizing myself; as I understand it libertarianism and creating a “level playing field” are somewhat mutually exclusive. My political erudition is pretty much based on my participation and reading here at Daily Kos. There’s more to it than a dictionary definition.
It is difficult to be 100% pure and consistent in one’s belief systems, which is why I bring this up. If I examine my beliefs I confess to occasional libertarian thoughts. Perhaps that is true for the excellent Kitchen Table group as well.
We have been looking at condos (that’s a whole nother story) and realize that there are now regulations in place which, for contiguous units (which includes most) it is illegal to smoke outside or even inside your own home. Although I don’t smoke cigarettes, my immediate reaction is, well, screw that!
We are on a rural property and have our own source of water, a well. Because of the several year drought, the county has mandated disclosure of information on every water source and has proposed inspections of every property. I covered this extensively in last year’s KTK Water Bureaucracy. The citizens are not amused. I have heard so many calm, progressive folks say that anyone checking on their water systems will be met with a shotgun.
Our (very) local paper reported on the approval of 160 acres to be added to the Atascadero Wetlands protected area (which means rules). They originally wanted to include 22 acres of established vineyards but this was voted down. Good decision, we thought, because here we are with our own established farm property for which we are careful stewards and we would balk at it happening to us. Our libertarian feelings manifesting once again.
I have the suspicion that each of us harbor at least a bit of libertarianism, especially when it’s our ox which is being gored. If you dig into your memories, perhaps you could share them here. Of course, being the progressive paradise that exists at the Kitchen Table, all other threads are welcome, even those proving you are as progressive as the new-driven snow.
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