The Revolution - A Manifesto - Ron Paul

The Ron Paul phenomenon is something we are unlikely to see over here in the UK. For those who don't know Ron Paul and his followers in the USA this book gives a great introducition.
Ron Paul, a conservative republican politician and former Libertarian Party Presidential candidate, has written a straight forward book that is appealing, entertaining and educational.
Now all you anarcho-capitalist types, who have a natural aversion to anyone who labels himself a conservative, please give the book the time of day. At the very least Ron Paul's manifesto, were it to be acted upon, could be considered a stepping stone towards minimal government, where-upon the anarcho-capitalist argument would win the population over to the removal of the state in total. OK I've not convinced you...but it is still worth a read.
RP's book starts with an explantion as to why no real debate takes place in the lead up to the US elections, why the important issues are swept under the carpet, and why it needs to change. The book's later chapters deal with economic policy including issues such as welfare reform.
As is the case with most Libertarian politicians, some of RP's critics say that his policies would leave poorer sections of society without any help. As RP and others such as David Boaz (see elsewhere for a review of his book 'Libertarianism') explain, there would be other organisations and individuals to aid those in need. RP goes on to say it would not be a case of just closing down all welfare safety nets in one big go. The book suggests that other areas of US economic spending would need to be addressed first. Changing the foreign policy from the current mess to one that includes bringing troops home and reducing the military spend etc would help.
A straight forward book, with little in the way of intellectual dancing around. Most of RP's case is basic common sense. RP also answers his critics accusations that he is an isolationist with some strong arguments to support his foreign policy stance - one that is based on the constituional approach to fair trade and no dodgy alliances.
Chalk this book up to a quick, informed and straight forward read.

Read more...

Libertarianism A Primer - David Boaz

Although more than a decade old this book is very relevant today. As a fairly new convert to the Libertarian philosophy I was seeking something that would give me a bit of a grounding in Libertarian concepts, history etc This book did just that.
Before delving into the details of modern Libertarian thought Boaz writes about the origins. For those who seek a simple but informative history lesson you'll find it in the first chapter. For me the observations, views and historical story telling were just what I needed, this may be down to my particular method of learning. Tell me a story and I'm a ready listener and learner.
For those that "get it" Libertarianism is a common sense. For those wishing to communicate Libertarian principals to others it can be a daunting task. Here in the UK, with our sacred cow, the welfare state, it can seem an impossible task to put up an argument to get rid of it. Reading this book will give you a basic grounding into the arguments for the demolition of such an institution.
Highly recommended.

Read more...