Monday, March 25, 2013

Libertarianism

All libertarians view society as requiring and benefiting from self-censorship as opposed to government censorship. As with all forms of libertarianism, the people are given the choice to decide on rules among themselves. This is similar to the concept of anarchic libertarianism in that both prescribe self-censorship as the best method of censorship for society. Censorship would only be decided upon if it benefits the whole of the community. 

Anarchic libertarianism, however, does away with the need for the state, as well as the concept of private property. Essentially, it is socialism without the state involved. Personal property is respected, just as in self-censoring libertarianism, but beyond that there is no need to accumulate excessive wealth in one person or group's hands. Self-censoring libertarians still see a purpose for the state, but only insofar as it provides for the safety of the citizens. Beyond that it is not given much power.

They both have their strengths. Self-censorship is a much more just and efficient way to censor sensitive, but vital and available, information. It lacks certain precautions and strictures that leave it vulnerable for exploitation by wealth. Anarchic libertarianism attempts to do away with the threat of wealth, but it fails to account for the element of human greed. There will always be people who exploit a situation for their benefit. That's why a system with rules and limits in place to stop, or at the very least contain, these violations of human decency is necessary.