Bartolome de Las Casas wrote detailed accounts of Spanish colonization of the Americas and fought for the rights of American Indians.

Though famous for his novel, Adolphe, Constant is also known in the English-speaking world for his writings on liberal constitutionalism.

A great 19^th century French economist, Gustave de Molinari was outspoken about his opposition of protectionist government policy.

Edward C. Feser outlines some common arguments conservatives raise against libertarians and how those criticisms have affected both movements.

Meyer was a major advocate of the right-wing fusionist movement, which attempted to unite elements of libertarianism and traditional conservatism.

Frank S. Meyer’s fusionist platform attempted to combine traditional values of conservatism with individual liberties and limited government.

John Rawls was a political theorist who revived interest in the field. Though not libertarian, his work can be interpreted in support of some free-market ideas.

In this entry, George H. Smith addresses the idea of conscience in western thought and the importance of liberty of conscience to be maintained.

Libertarians support the concept that virtue, or a sense of moral good present in acts or character, is born from liberty.

An advocate for enlightenment and liberal reforms, Marquis de Condorcet had a brief but eventful influence as part the French Revolutionary government.

Turgot was a French economist, writer, and royal advisor. He tried to accomplish sweeping liberal reform of the economy and political system.

The Enlightenment brought a wave of philosophical ideas, including classical liberalism, scientific progress, and social and religious tolerance.

In this entry, Randall Holcombe overviews the ideals, strengths, and weaknesses of democracy, particularly as it occurs in states today.

Competition between multiple firms fuels innovation, trade, and efficiency. For this reason, competition is an important part of a free market economy.

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) force workers into being represented by unions, regardless of their own preferences, and thus lack legitimacy.

The socialist calculation debate asks whether central planners can efficiently distribute resources. Evidence proves that socialism will always fail.

Kleptocracies are those governments that enact policies which take resources from citizens simply for government gain or gain of select interests.

Socialism calls for the social ownership, planning, and redistribution of wealth and goods. It undermines freedom and ultimately fails to meet its ends.