Libertarian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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libertarian

[หŒlษชb.ษ™rหˆter.i.ษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

politics

A person who believes in the doctrine of free will and opposes the idea of government intervention in individual lives.

Synonyms

anarchist, individualist, nonconformist.

Examples of usage

  • Many libertarians advocate for minimal government involvement in economic and social matters.
  • The libertarian party promotes personal freedom and limited government control.
  • Libertarians often argue for the importance of individual rights and responsibilities.
  • Libertarianism is founded on the principles of self-ownership and non-aggression.
  • Some libertarians support the legalization of drugs and oppose censorship.
Context #2 | Adjective

politics

Relating to or characteristic of a libertarian or libertarianism.

Synonyms

anti-authoritarian, freedom-loving, non-interventionist.

Examples of usage

  • Her libertarian views on freedom of speech align with the party's principles.
  • The candidate's libertarian policies attracted a diverse range of supporters.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'libertarian' was first used in the 19th century in France, deriving from the Latin word for freedom.
  • In the 1960s, the modern libertarian movement gained momentum in the United States, influenced by civil rights and anti-war sentiments.

Political Philosophy

  • Libertarians advocate for free markets, personal responsibility, and limited government intervention in both personal and economic matters.
  • A central belief in libertarianism is the non-aggression principle, which means one should not initiate force against others.

Pop Culture

  • Libertarian ideas have influenced various media, from films to music, often showcasing themes of rebellion against authority.
  • Some celebrities, like Penn Jillette and Clint Eastwood, openly align with libertarian beliefs, promoting individualism in their work.

Global Perspectives

  • While predominantly associated with the United States, libertarian ideas have spread globally, inspiring movements around personal freedom in countries like Canada and the UK.
  • In some nations, libertarian parties have gained representation in government, focusing on reducing state power.

Economics

  • Libertarians often argue for a laissez-faire economy, where individuals and businesses operate with minimal regulation.
  • Critics argue that extreme libertarianism can lead to inequality, as market forces alone may not address social needs.

Origin of 'libertarian'

The term 'libertarian' has its roots in the 18th century Enlightenment philosophy, specifically in the works of philosophers like John Locke and Thomas Jefferson. It gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a political ideology advocating for individual liberty, free markets, and limited government intervention. The modern libertarian movement encompasses a range of beliefs, from classical liberalism to anarcho-capitalism, all united by a commitment to personal freedom and voluntary association.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,853, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.