What Is A “Libertarian Republic”?

A “Libertarian Republic” is a concept that attempts to describe an ideal form of governance for a nation devoted to classical liberal ideas. It reflects a desire for the power of governance to be situated as near to the citizens being governed as possible. It is to invoke the ideas of Federalism and to imply that a government of limited powers, bound by constitutional restraints, with institutions of balanced power and citizen participation is best for a peaceful, humble republic. Any collection of individuals may form a nation state to defend themselves against common threats and those bonds enacted should install a system where local governance may trump federal governance in order to create a laboratory of democracy. Free individuals must be given the right to choose where to live in their nation state so they may exhibit all of the lifestyle preferences they wish to engage in. In other words, to vote with their feet.

A libertarian republic’s ideal foreign policy would be one of neutrality in foreign affairs. A just nation does not seek to interfere in the governance of foreign nations when that nation does not threaten the health, stability or security of the libertarian republic. However, the principle of self defense and the authority invested in individuals to protect themselves personally does extend to a group of individuals as well. Thus, in wartime, it is perfectly legitimate to forge alliances and treaties with foreign nations as a measure of self defense. Just as individuals may call for help when attacked, so may a nation state. However, after a formal declaration and summation of a defensive war, it is in the libertarian republic’s best interests to return to a position of neutrality once again. Examples of this foreign policy viewpoint have historically been practiced by nations such as The United States, Switzerland, New Zealand and Sweden. It has also been espoused by political leaders such as former Senator Robert Taft, Fmr. CIA Chief Michael Scheuer, Fmr. Congressman Ron Paul and economist John Stuart Mill in his famous essay “A Few Words on Non-Intervention.” Thomas Jefferson in his first inaugural address echoed this point of view when he stated, “Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations, entangling alliances with none…”

A libertarian republic is also one of laissez-faire domestic policies and limited to no taxation. Citizens under a constitutional system should be free to do as they please, provided they do no harm to others. “Victimless Crimes” are in truth not crimes at all, and all human beings in a republic are entrusted with personal responsibility. That responsibility does come with a price. The price is that each and every unique citizen must bear the responsibility of his or her actions. Thus, a citizen may exercise free speech, but must be prepared to deal with the negative societal consequences of that speech. A citizen may engage in risky behavior such as smoking, rock climbing or illicit drug use, but must be prepared to accept the costs of health care for treatment of injuries or diseases.

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