Minarchism
Minarchism argues that the only legitimate state is a 'night-watchman' state limited to police, courts and national defence. Everything else, from welfare to infrastructure, should be left to markets and voluntary associations.
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Favours a small government with most matters handled locally or privately.
Accepts representative institutions but only within a tightly limited constitutional scope.
The state exists to protect rights, not to restrict them for broader security goals.
Keeps the state's foreign role narrow and is sceptical of pooled international authority.
Accepts a military as one of the few proper state functions, but for defence only.
No settled position; adherents divide between open migration and border control.
Treats private property as near inviolable and rejects redistribution.
Opposes nearly all economic regulation beyond enforcing contracts.
Supports free trade without tariffs or subsidies.
The state should neither promote nor restrict religion.
Neutral on social change; morality is left to individuals and civil society.
Favours a free hand for technological innovation.