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In reply to the discussion: Hello, DU. I am a libertarian. [View all]Scuba
(53,475 posts)Let's start with the flat tax. I disagree that it is fair just because it taxes everyone at the same rate. Frankly, those with more wealth receive more government services than do the poor - police and fire protection for their expensive homes and businesses, military protection of their international trade, roads, sewers and other infrastructure for their businesses, an educated workforce thanks to public schools, etc. In fact, corporate welfare far, far exceeds social services. If taxation is to be fair, businesses and individuals should be taxed based on the benefit they receive from our society and government. Clearly the wealthy receive more benefit than do the poor. If fairness is the goal, and it should be, then a progressive tax policy should be in place. It doesn't have to be complicated.
As for the minimum wage, I'll accept that you didn't mention your only reason when you advocated against it, but one can easily infer that you'd mention your primary reason, but I guess "liberty" is your primary reason. Can you tell me how you think a minimum wage impinges on one's liberty any more than a speed limit does, or are you also against speed limits? Both of course, are for the benefit of society.
Now, on to the 2A being to prevent tyranny. How does it do so if there are no limits on private ownership of missiles, etc?
On the freedom of association thing, you've conflated tailing someone with searching a private home or business. No warrant is required to tail someone into a tavern. And as we sadly know from our history, the free market does NOT always weed out the intolerant.
I'm still perplexed as to why you would associate yourself with modern libertarianism without having a strong anti-regulation position, which is the hallmark of modern libertarian politicians. The rest of these issues are window dressing for them.
Good luck with the longterm evolution of your political thinking. Your willingness to discuss the issues rationally should serve you well.