Will Grigg?s Liberty Minute

September 25, 2012

In the study of logic, philosophy students are taught to avoid a fallacy called the category error, in which things of one kind are presented as if they belong in another. A recent critique of libertarianism by a self-described Christian conservative is built around this fallacy.

Commenting on Ludwig von Mises?s book Human Action, the essayist insists that libertarianism reduces ?man to a rational, pleasure-seeking animal? characterized by ?spiritual emptiness.? Tellingly, the writer says that libertarianism offers ?a poor banner under which to die,? and provides little reason for ?soldiers to fight valiantly.?

In other words, libertarianism -- from that writer?s perspective -- is unsuitable because it wouldn?t inspire individuals to kill and die on behalf of the State. This underscores the fact that the writer is committing a category error by treating libertarianism as political ideology, rather than a moral philosophy that rejects the use of aggressive violence and fraud.

The author complains that libertarianism undermines society?s ?moral boundaries.? In fact, it is unconditionally committed to the most important moral boundary ? the non-aggression principle. Rather than devising elaborate rationales for officially sanctioned violence, libertarians insist on the universal practice of the Golden Rule ? something Christian conservatives should celebrate.

Let us take back the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free.