# Introduction (Vol. 1 No. 4) **URL:** **Published:** December 1, 1982 --- “For centuries, various minorities have been viciously persecuted because of their religious or political views.” With this issue we continue “The Basic Tenets of Real Liberalism.” In the previous issue we discussed the liberal idea of individualism, basing our argument on the right of each individual to own and control his or her own body. In Part II, “Toleration and Autonomy,” we extend the idea further by applying it to the problem of tolerance and individual moral autonomy. For centuries, various minorities have been viciously persecuted because of their religious or political views. Not until the Reformation of the sixteenth century did theories emerge that defended the individual’s right to the uncoerced practice of his or her religious and social beliefs. Liberals quickly recognized that this right is an extension of the more basic and general right of individuals to own property in themselves, as well as in books, churches, and other physical objects. It also became obvious that the moral autonomy of the individual depended upon the opportunity to choose among alternatives without being coerced. Without uncoerced choice there can be no morality. The tradition of tolerance for diverse ideas and respect for the property rights of those who peacefully act upon their religious and political ideas began during the sixteenth century. It has continued to be a central part of the classical liberal tradition. In the _Crosscurrents_ section we have given more than the usual amount of space to a series of short reviews on the sociology and history of the state. It is extremely important for libertarians to have a detailed historical and theoretical understanding of that institution which controls so much of our lives. The titles we have selected should serve as a useful beginning for a serious study of this complex institution.