Introduction

Introduction to a volume in which influential libertarians from diverse backgrounds and professions who have worked toward a freer society across the globe share their personal and intellectual journeys, including what their lives and thoughts were before they embraced libertarianism; which people, texts, or events most inspired them; what experiences, challenges, tribulations, and achievements they have had as participants or leaders in this movement; and how this philosophy has affected their private and professional lives. The volume’s 80 contributors span the political-philosophical spectrum of libertarianism, including anarcho-capitalists, minarchists, constitutionalists, classical liberals, and thick libertarians. Their essays express different perspectives on many issues even while articulating such core principles as an appreciation for individual liberty, private property rights, the rule of law, and free enterprise. We have sought to present a sampling of the myriad individual journeys toward libertarianism, however defined. By bringing together a range of contemporary voices from outside the dominant left–right paradigm, we aim to contribute to the viewpoint diversity that is crucially needed in today’s public discourse.