Plumb Line Libertarianism: A Critique of Hoppe

Reason Papers, Vol. 29, Fall 2007

13 Pages Posted: 11 Jul 2011

See all articles by Walter E. Block

Walter E. Block

Loyola University New Orleans - Joseph A. Butt, S.J. College of Business

Abstract

In this essay I shall argue for “plumb-line” or pure libertarianism, and take to task a libertarian author who sees some intrinsic connection between libertarianism and conservatism. I contend, in contrast, that while there may well be a case for temporary alliances with those on the right, it is false and misleading to characterize libertarianism as any more closely related to the right than to the left.

The thesis of this essay is that libertarianism must go its own way, philosophically divorced from ideologies of both left and right. In effect I say to both socialists and conservatives: “A pox on both your houses.”

Suggested Citation

Block, Walter E., Plumb Line Libertarianism: A Critique of Hoppe. Reason Papers, Vol. 29, Fall 2007, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1881061

Walter E. Block (Contact Author)

Loyola University New Orleans - Joseph A. Butt, S.J. College of Business ( email )

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