Smith discusses some of the problems in libertarian theory caused by the many different conceptions of liberty.

Smith criticizes Jason Brennan’s defense of positive liberty and his attempt to make positive liberty an essential part of libertarian theory.

Smith criticizes Jason Brennan’s view of the origin of “hard libertarianism” and his treatment of Ayn Rand.

Smith begins his critical examination of Brennan’s recent book by discussing the label “libertarianism” and its relationship to classical liberalism.

George H. Smith discusses why Ayn Rand believed that altruism is incompatible with benevolence and charitable actions.

George H. Smith discusses Ayn Rand’s notion of self-sacrifice and the crucial role that duty played in her theory of altruism.

George H. Smith explores Ayn Rand’s contention that altruism plays an indispensable role in the justification of political collectivism.

George H. Smith discusses one of Rand’s major objections to both altruism and the traditional concept of egoism.

Smith begins his series on Ayn Rand’s critique of altruism with a discussion of the ideas of Auguste Comte, the man who coined the word “altruism.”

George H. Smith concludes the series with a look at Roy Childs’s evolving views on anarchism.

George H. Smith turns to what may be Roy Childs’s most recognized role in the libertarian movement: book reviewer.

George H. Smith tackles several misconceptions about the theory of anarchism—and contrasts it with the condition of anarchy.

Smith discusses the influence of Robert LeFevre on the developing anarchism of Roy A. Childs, Jr.

Smith begins his series on Roy A. Childs, Jr., with the impact Childs’s anarchism had on his own thinking.

Increasing the sphere of politics leads to bad policy and increased vice.

Smith analyzes two kinds of freedom, pragmatic and moral, and gives examples of how this distinction has been used in the history of libertarian thought.

George H. Smith discusses Spencer’s fear that democracy will destroy freedom in the long run.

Smith discusses how Herbert Spencer’s analyses of nineteenth-century Germany and France contributed to his pessimistic outlook on the future of freedom.