Selfish Libertarians and Socialist Conservatives?: The Foundations of the Libertarian-Conservative Debate

In Selfish Libertarians and Socialist Conservatives?, Nathan W. Schlueter and Nikolai G. Wenzel present a lively debate over the essential questions that divide two competing political philosophies. Wenzel―a libertarian who believes the state should be restricted to protecting life, liberty, and property―and Schlueter―a conservative who thinks the state has a larger role to play in protecting public welfare, safety, and morals―explore the fundamental similarities and differences between their respective positions.

Over a series of point-counterpoint chapters, they lay out the essential tenets of their own stances, critiquing the other. This engaging dialogue introduces readers to the foundations of each political philosophy. To vividly illustrate the diverging principles underlying conservatism and libertarianism, the authors explore three different hot-button case studies: marriage, immigration, and education. Compact, accessible, and complete with suggestions for further reading, Selfish Libertarians and Socialist Conservatives? is an ideal teaching tool that places these two political perspectives in fruitful dialogue with one another.