The Nature and Function of the State in the Framework of the Fundamental Principles of Libertarian Doctrine

Abstract

: In this paper, we first give information about the birth, development and basic principles of libertarianism. Secondly, we try to explain the nature and function of the state within the framework of these principles. The most important point in the study is the situation of the state against human rights, whose nature and function we try to determine within the framework of the principles of libertarian doctrine. We tried to show how the state, which is considered to be the most dangerous institution in terms of human rights and freedoms in history, became an institution that protects human rights and freedoms in line with the libertarian understanding. Libertarianism is a political philosophy that emerged in America and is a follower of the classical liberal tradition. Three trends have been influential in the improvement of libertarianism. The first of these tendencies is the desire to break away from utilitarian political philosophy. Another trend is the need to set forth the ethical foundations of libertarianism. The third trend is the practices on the protection of human rights in societies where ideologies such as fascism, communism and socialism are dominant. Libertarianism suggests different ideas from other ideologies and classical liberalism on issues such as individual freedom, limited government, and the supremacy of law. The basic principles of libertarianism, which sees freedom as the highest political value, are individual rights, spontaneous order, and limited government.