Boaz’s ‘Libertarianism’ Reviewed in Chinese Newspaper

Great news for the Cato Institute’s David Boaz: his wonderful book, Libertarianism: A Primer was reviewed in a prominent Chinese-language newspaper in Shanghai by our friend at the Cathay Institute of Public Affairs, Liu Junning. This Chinese-edition of the book was translated by Guomin Liyi’s own Alan Chen, and has been a labor of love for him these past few years.

I’m completing a translation now (the full version will be posted here in the next day or so), but for now, here’s the opening few paragraphs:

In a sense, there are only two political philosophies: the philosophy of freedom, and the philosophy of power. Or the people’s freedom to live the way they see fit, while at the same time respecting the equal rights of others, and not forcing them to do things against their will. This latest edition of  David Boaz’s “Classical Liberalism” attempts to classify a variety of political philosophies according to these two larger categories.

Libertarianism: A Primer tells from where the various forms of the philosophy of power emerged: individual dictatorship (Caesarism), oriental despotism, theocracy, communitarianism, fascism, monarchy, national socialism, and class dictatorship. They vary in name, which helps conceal their similarities. The philosophy of freedom also comes with different labels, but all are defenders of the same idea: respect for the rights of individuals, the recognition of every individuals autonomy, and the right to defend oneself against tyranny.

The philosophy of freedom holds that although we are all social animals, we are also distinct persons. Therefore, among people can only be equal, independent partners in exchanges like, rather than the monarch and officials to obey the same control. Each person is only right that they have ownership. Each person belongs to himself; they do not belong to any class or party.

The philosophy of power holds that there is inequality between the people and that society as a whole is destined to submit to a single ruler, a political party, or a class dictatorship. Further, we must forever submit to the leadership of some. Interpersonal relations cannot be considered an equal partnership, but a relationship between the leader and the led, or the domination of a monarch and the court officials. The supreme ruler holds centralized ownership over all the people, asking of them unconditional obedience, unity, loyalty, love, and never to revolt.

The philosophy of freedom puts extra emphasis on “free”, because freedom is essential for human life. As is pointed out in the book, “liberty” and the “right to life” are two different ways of expressing the same thing. If there is self-ownership and the right to extend and develop ones life, as well as to take responsibility for ones actions, then one must have the freedom of thought and action.