How Libertarians Marginalize Themselves

The last quote, in block red, is an actual message I received on this subject, within the framework of a general debate on the issue of gun control. The rest is me putting into context the reason why many radical libertarians marginalize themselves in public debates. It’s not that they’re wrong, they’re just not having the same debate as everyone else. Or anyone else:

Liberal: “We need more gun control.”

Conservative: “We need less gun control.”

Independent: “I can see both sides.”

Libertarian:

“An anarcho-capitalist society’s non-aggression principle in practice would enable individuals ability to prevent violence, should this principle be violated by any of the individuals within a true stateless society.”

Effective public debate necessarily requires a recognizable context for all parties involved. Examining the shooting tragedy in Aurora Colorado, the average American wants to know what will make them and their family safer in the future from similar incidents–more gun control or less? A reasonable concern.

Libertarians have answers to this concern. In fact, libertarians probably have some of the best answers. But those answers must be concrete and reality-based. Something virtually any American could understand on an everyday level.

There is a time and place for theoretical debate. But every time is not a place for theoretical debate. In fact, most times are not.