Best Books on Libertarianism

This science fiction classic explores personal responsibility and political freedom. Set on a lunar penal colony aided by a self-aware supercomputer, the story follows a diverse group of people as they navigate the rapidly evolving definitions of humanity, technology, and free will. A gripping read that will make you question the role of technology in our lives and society, and ponder the consequences of our actions.

This thought-provoking book delves into the question of what gives a state the right to use coercion and why citizens should obey its commands. From the social contract theory to theories of democratic authorization and fairness, the author explores various theories of political authority and ultimately concludes that none succeed. Instead, the author proposes that voluntary and competitive institutions could provide the central goods often attributed to the state, including law, protection, and national security. A must-read for those interested in political philosophy and the role of government.

Learn about the principles of different economic systems in Basic Economics. Written for those who want to understand the economy without the jargon, economist Thomas Sowell explains how to analyze economic policies based on their incentives rather than their goals. With clear explanations of everything from rent control to international trade, this book is perfect for those seeking to understand how the economy functions. The fifth edition includes a new chapter on the disparities of wealth and income between countries. Using real-world examples and plain language, Sowell breaks down the basics of economics for readers of all backgrounds.

Discover the definitive book on both democracy and America. Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America captures the essence of America's equality of conditions and democracy. This classic is often quoted because it has something insightful to teach everyone. With this new translation by Harvey Mansfield and Delba Winthrop, readers can fully appreciate the nuances of Tocqueville's original language and gain a deeper understanding of Tocqueville's thoughts and insights. Perfectly placed annotations and a powerful introduction provide readers with a modern perspective to appreciate a timeless masterpiece.

This book delves into the motive behind secret ballots - fear and a lack of trust among those who employ it. Lysander Spooner explores the use of secret ballots in creating an alliance against others, despite a lack of camaraderie among the users themselves.

This thought-provoking book delves into the practical applications of economics in real-world issues such as housing, medical care, and discrimination. The author tackles complex subjects in understandable language, without the usual jargon of economists. The book also explores the long-term effects of economic policies, and how politics and economics intersect to produce similar outcomes across diverse cultures.

Explore the fallacies of protectionism and learn the importance of analyzing economic questions from the perspective of the consumer, with this persuasive collection of essays. Written by a renowned economist, this edition contains helpful cross-references and explanatory comments to enhance understanding for modern readers. Discover the timeless relevance of Economic Sophisms and its lessons for economic policy-making today.

"The Libertarian Mind" by David Boaz is the ultimate guide to understanding the philosophy of personal and economic freedom, known as Libertarianism. With roots in Western civilization and American history, this book is praised for its ability to unite history, philosophy, economics, and law. Boaz's revised and updated edition explores topics such as government surveillance, the 2008 financial crisis, and corruption in Washington, making it an essential resource for the growing Libertarian movement.

Explore the history of libertarianism in America with this captivating book. Follow the journeys of influential leaders like Ludwig von Mises, F.A. Hayek, Ayn Rand, Murray Rothbard, and Milton Friedman, and learn about the personal battles, character flaws, love affairs, and historical events that shaped the movement. Based on original research and interviews with over 100 key sources, this insightful narrative offers a fresh perspective on American history, from the New Deal to today's most divisive political issues. Perfect for anyone interested in politics.

Discover a classic book that has been hailed as one of the most influential books of the modern era. Capitalism and Freedom presents Milton Friedman's economic philosophy on how competitive capitalism can lead to both economic and political freedom. It has sold over half a million copies in English, translated into eighteen languages and continues to be a significant work in the field of economics today.