Counter Markets

Newsletter for Libertarian Entrepreneurs

Philosophy

How Healthy Pessimism Can Lead to Personal Freedom

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By David Evans We all want to be happy, but we’re not terribly good at it. As a result, for centuries philosophers have wrestled with how to attain happiness. Few, though, have offered as novel an answer as Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome’s greatest emperors. Ready for it? There might be a deeper problem with how we’re pursuing happiness: We’re not focusing on the negatives … [Read more...] about How Healthy Pessimism Can Lead to Personal Freedom

The Golden Rule Is as Golden as Ever

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By Lawrence W. Reed For three hours, the famous “standoff at the schoolhouse door” riveted the country’s attention. Alabama Governor George Wallace physically blocked the entrance to Foster Auditorium at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. His intent was to prevent two students from registering for classes. Why? It had nothing to do with the content of their … [Read more...] about The Golden Rule Is as Golden as Ever

What Does “Voluntary” Actually Mean?

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By Michael Munger What limits should be placed on the ability of individuals to enter into negotiable agreements? It’s tempting to say, “none.” But there are some “agreements” — those reached under duress or in restraint of trade or other rights of third parties — that the state may decline to enforce, or outlaw completely. Presumably, if an exchange is truly voluntary, … [Read more...] about What Does “Voluntary” Actually Mean?

A History of Anarchist Thought w/Per Bylund

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Pete welcomes Per Bylund back to the show. Per is a Fellow of the Mises Institute and Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship & Records-Johnston Professor of Free Enterprise in the School of Entrepreneurship in the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University, and an Associate Fellow of the Ratio Institute in Stockholm. Per recently did a presentation on … [Read more...] about A History of Anarchist Thought w/Per Bylund