mindstalk | (Reply)

Sure, and we could get into the defense of private property at the point of a gun. But my intention isn't to defend libertarianism from all comers -- I'm a US liberal/social democrat/into mixed economies myself these days -- but to get people to see how it can be an attractive philosophy without being all about greed or wannabe robber barons. I'd say it's no less idealistic and appealing than socialism, really.

I think it's flawed, but then, I think that of the pure idealism of socialism as well. Cf. "mixed economies".

Now, if you want to make fun of individual libertarians for not being able to distinguish between socialism and mixed economies, go ahead. :) I'd also make fun of socialists who can't see the utility of markets[1], which I think you might be able to join me on, given what you've said of your politics.

[1] Especially given that Marx wrote one of the brightest paeans to capitalism!