From Libertarian to Supporting Universal Basic Income: A Transformation in Beliefs
When I was a 'free-thinking college student' in the early 2010s, I identified as a libertarian with a firm belief in anarcho-capitalism. However, as I transitioned into the working world in 2020, my views have undergone a significant and unexpected shift. This journey from libertarianism to embracing universal basic income is a fascinating exploration of my evolving beliefs and a critique of the very structures that libertarians often advocate for.
From Anarcho-Capitalism to Supporting Universal Basic Income
The moment I started working a 9-to-5 job, my libertarian phase quickly evaporated. It might seem humorous for someone to move from anarcho-capitalism to supporting universal basic income, but there is more to it than meets the eye. This shift was a result of a deep understanding of the realities of modern work environments and the contradictions inherent in true libertarian principles.
Libertarian Ideals vs. Corporate Realities
Libertarianism, in its purest form, advocates for the privatization of everything, the abolition of welfare, and a society structured around unregulated free markets. However, it is crucial to examine what these ideas mean in the context of our daily lives. In reality, the average working adult essentially works in a de facto totalitarian dictatorship. Employers dictate every aspect of the workday—employees are not granted a vote and are required to comply with orders, and the threat of unemployment keeps most people in line.
The Misalignment of Libertarian Principles and Corporate Practices
Libertarians argue for the rights of individuals to freedom of speech and economic freedom, but their implementation is often contradictory. They believe in deregulation, but what kind of regulation are they referring to? Regulations such as minimum wage and maximum work hours. These guidelines exist to protect workers, preventing exploitation and ensuring a basic standard of living. If these regulations did not exist, corporations would likely force employees to work longer hours for less pay, as they are free to do so.
Libertarianism and Corporate Tyranny
Libertarians often overlook the fact that many of these regulations are necessary because corporate powers would otherwise use their dominant position to exploit workers. The idea of "economic freedom" for the working class is meaningless when it does not protect against these abuses. Instead of fostering true economic freedom, libertarians end up supporting a form of crypto-Aristocracy, where a few control the means of production and can dictate the terms of labor without significant resistance.
The Evolution of My Beliefs
During my journey from libertarianism to supporting universal basic income, I have had to reconcile the abstract principles of libertarianism with their concrete manifestations in the real world. It became clear to me that true freedom cannot be achieved without addressing the structural inequalities inherent in capitalist societies.
The libertarian movement often overlooks the role of institutions that are nominally accountable to the democratic will of the people. For example, public institutions like healthcare, education, and welfare provide essential support and protection to vulnerable groups. Removing these institutions in favor of privatized solutions can undermine the very foundations of a just society. Corporations, while theoretically meant to serve the interests of their employees, often prioritize profit over worker well-being. This is a stark deviation from the ideal of individual freedom and autonomy that libertarians often espouse.
Key Takeaways
1. Libertarianism and Corporate Authority: While libertarians preach about individual freedom, the reality is often very different. They support the privatization of everything but fail to consider the structure of corporate power and its impact on workers.
2. Freedom of Speech: Libertarians claim to support freedom of speech, but their acceptance of corporate censorship and control over speech in the workplace contradicts this belief.
3. Uncoinsing 'Economic Freedom': The term 'economic freedom' is often misused to justify the exploitation of workers, rather than ensuring a fair and just distribution of economic benefits.
4. Supporting Universal Basic Income: By providing a basic income, governments can ensure that every individual has the financial security to pursue their interests and innovate, thereby fostering a more equitable and prosperous society.
Conclusion
After much reflection, I have come to the realization that libertarianism as a philosophy is fundamentally flawed and does not align with the realities of modern society. Instead, my support for universal basic income is rooted in the desire to provide a safety net for all individuals, ensuring that they have the means to survive and thrive. This shift in my beliefs is not a rejection of individual rights, but a recognition of the systemic issues that undermine true freedom and economic justice.