Being a libertarian in America is stressful.

[squeek12]

It seems like libertarianism loses no matter which party wins. I tend to side with Democrats on social issues like gay marriage, abortion, and drug use. But I side with republicans on economic policy (lower taxes, fewer regulations, and private property rights). Even though republicans IMO aren't as pro-market as they might pretend to be. And democrats seem to push agendas that further restrict personal freedom like smoking bans.

As America moves closer to socialism, I find myself constantly frustrated with the news of the day. I nearly blew a gasket at the recent emminent domain decision. Am I doomed to a life of aggrivation, or should I just stop paying attention? Any fellow libertarians out there with words of encouragement?

[IronDragon1]

[ QUOTE ]
It seems like libertarianism loses no matter which party wins. I tend to side with Democrats on social issues like gay marriage, abortion, and drug use. But I side with republicans on economic policy (lower taxes, fewer regulations, and private property rights). Even though republicans IMO aren't as pro-market as they might pretend to be. And democrats seem to push agendas that further restrict personal freedom like smoking bans.

As America moves closer to socialism, I find myself constantly frustrated with the news of the day. I nearly blew a gasket at the recent emminent domain decision. Am I doomed to a life of aggrivation, or should I just stop paying attention? Any fellow libertarians out there with words of encouragement?

[/ QUOTE ]

Never stop paying attention and caring but yes, this ish is incredibly discouraging.

[DVaut1]

[ QUOTE ]
As America moves closer to socialism

[/ QUOTE ]

I think maybe you're a little too sensitive. I really can't see how America is moving closer towards socialism.

Home ownership, if I'm not mistaken, is at record highs. Small business ownership, if I'm not mistaken, is at record highs.

I'd just relax.

However, if/when online poker is declared illegal, I'll grab my torch and I'll stand along side you as we storm the gates of our oppressors.

[squeek12]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
As America moves closer to socialism

[/ QUOTE ]

I think maybe you're a little too sensitive. I really can't see how America is moving closer towards socialism.

Home ownership, if I'm not mistaken, is at record highs. Small business ownership, if I'm not mistaken, is at record highs.

I'd just relax.

However, if/when online poker is declared illegal, I'll grab my torch and I'll stand along side you as we storm the gates of our oppressors.

[/ QUOTE ]

I admit my position on politics is relatively extreme, so it is possible that I am too sensitive. Also, I'm very young(22) and have only been closely following politics for a couple of years. After hearing about China and Russia's joint military training I got a knot in my stomach. But then I thought about how people must have felt during the Cold War.

I guess in some sense ignorance is truly bliss.

[DVaut1]

[ QUOTE ]
I admit my position on politics is relatively extreme, so it is possible that I am too sensitive. Also, I'm very young(22) and have only been closely following politics for a couple of years. After hearing about China and Russia's joint military training I got a knot in my stomach. But then I thought about how people must have felt during the Cold War.

I guess in some sense ignorance is truly bliss.


[/ QUOTE ]

I think we should always remain vigilant against government encroachment; I don't think you're ignorant or extreme, and I don't think fear is a bad emotion when it comes to trepidation of state authority.

Having said all that, I'm not quite ready to hit the panic button just yet.

[Bob Moss]

Yes it is frustrating. Just remember that no matter what anyone says, the state does not own you. Also, buy gold.

B

[mackthefork]

[ QUOTE ]
I think maybe you're a little too sensitive. I really can't see how America is moving closer towards socialism.

Home ownership, if I'm not mistaken, is at record highs. Small business ownership, if I'm not mistaken, is at record highs.

I'd just relax.

However, if/when online poker is declared illegal, I'll grab my torch and I'll stand along side you as we storm the gates of our oppressors.

[/ QUOTE ]

The same is true of home ownership and small business ownership in the UK, these things tend to happen slowly, slight erosion of the rights of the individual, just a little at a time, people suggest you are paranoid when you speak about it, however once you get there, there is no way to get back to the way it once was. I like the idea of the USA but I'm afraid thats all it will be, you'll all be longing for the America that exists only in the minds of Republicans.

Regards Mack

[FishHooks]

For what it's worth I'm actually in favor of the new emminent domain laws. I wasn't at first, but shortly realized its a good idea. It would be good if they goverment put in a provision that made the compnay or government who is taking over your land to pay you 10-15% more than the value of your property, that way everyone wins.

[JPinAZ]

[ QUOTE ]
that way everyone wins.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, except for those pesky people who don't want to sell. But hey, that's what we have ED laws for.

[cardcounter0]

yeah, what is a little right like "private property" when someone can make a buck?