Libertarianism
Libertarianism puts individual liberty at the centre of politics and wants government kept small, mainly to protect rights and enforce contracts. It favours free markets, civil liberties and voluntary cooperation over state direction of social and economic life.
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Prefers power dispersed to states, localities and individuals rather than concentrated in a national government.
Accepts constitutional democracy but wants strict limits on what majorities may decide.
Strongly opposes surveillance, censorship and other liberty limits justified by security.
Wary of supranational bodies yet supportive of open exchange, so leans slightly toward national sovereignty.
Typically favours a non-interventionist foreign policy and a defensive military.
Many favour freer immigration and leave culture to individuals, though some want restrictions.
Strongly defends private property and market outcomes, with minimal redistribution.
Seeks deregulation and a minimal state role in the economy.
Supports free trade and opposes tariffs as a tax on consumers.
Wants government neutral toward religion, while protecting freedom of worship.
Socially permissive on personal choices, yet not committed to a progressive social agenda.
Generally welcomes innovation and opposes regulation that slows new technology.