What Libertarians Have to be Thankful For

As libertarians, it’s easy to constantly feel upset about the state of the world today. Right wing populism is on the rise and more young people seem to prefer socialism. It is especially disheartening that the United States Government doesn’t seem to be stopping its infringements on our liberties any time soon. Just look at the soon-to-be-renewed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Or the privacy-destroying “Liberty Act.” We may often feel like the world is coming to an end, but there is actually quite a bit for us to be thankful for. 

Economic freedom is on the rise. More and more governments are recognizing gay rights. Global poverty is declining. More people have internet access than ever before. And the world is becoming more safe and peaceful. In short, we are seeing the world becoming a much better place.

Even in the United States, there’s still quite a bit for libertarians to be thankful for. Trump, despite his many, many flaws, passed the “two-for-one” Executive Order which states that “for every federal regulation passed, two must be rescinded.” Removing outdated regulations is a victory for economic progress and well-being. The United States is also taking slow but steady steps toward ending the war on marijuana with many states pursuing medical marijuana legislation as well as decriminalization and legalization. Life expectancy is rising. We’re polluting less. We’re even more charitable. 

Finally, something close to my heart that I and every other libertarian should be thankful for, are the huge strides in activism that we are seeing thanks to Students For Liberty’s thousands and thousands of student leaders around the globe.

So this Thanksgiving when you find yourself arguing with family members over healthcare and immigration, keep in mind that as a libertarian there is still a lot to be thankful for. In a world of negativity and pessimism, it is more important than ever for us libertarians to act as bastions of optimism for a freer future. I’m thankful for the liberties that have made the world a wonderful place and I’m thankful for all of my amazing fellow activists that are daily trying to improve our world even more.