# What Does It Mean to Be Libertarian? **URL:** **By** Stephen Davies **Published:** August 10, 2011 --- According to Dr. Stephen Davies, libertarianism is first and foremost a political doctrine. Libertarians seek a society most conducive to human flourishing amongst autonomous self-defined individuals. Libertarians argue that this state of affairs is accomplished when the role of government and power is kept to a minimum. Although some have argued that libertarianism is a cult or rigid creed, Dr. Davies argues it is not, as there is a great deal of debate within the libertarian tradition. These internal debates are a sign of intellectual vitality, and are healthy for any intellectual tradition. For more, visit [LearnLiberty.org](http://www.learnliberty.org/).