BARBOURISM: THE POLITICS OF RONALD BARBOUR

I know that some of you have wondered what politics I advocate.

I have stated it before, but I will say it again: I stand for individual rights, laissez-faire capitalism and limited constitutional government.In terms of political parties in the United States of America the Libertarian Party would come closest in ideology to my own; however, the Libertarian Party is quite small and has little chance, in the near future, of dominating the politics in the USA. Hence, I support the next best candidate, which is the Republican Party (GOP) that, at least in terms of rhetoric (and sometimes in practice) closely parallels my standards. The Democratic Party is, in my humble opinion, a reactionary socialist machine that supports a highly centralized authoritarian government with limited civil rights and a heavily regulated approach to the economy.

In regards to the terms conservative and liberal: In contemporary America a conservative is really a traditional liberal, that is, one who stands for limited government, civil rights and a free market economy. In contrast, a contemporary American liberal is, in fact, a socialist, one who stands for a highly centralized government that seeks to impose its will upon all aspects of life in society. Another difference between liberals and conservatives in contemporary America is a matter of faith: Conservatives tend to believe in God and look upon government as a necessary evil; In contrast, the liberals believe that government can bring about perfection on earth, they believe in Man.In terms of vocation, the conservatives tend to represent the majority in commerce, military and law enforcement. In contrast, the liberals represent the majority engaged in bureaucracy, the trade unions, environmentalists, teachers and the so-called civil rights movement.

I think of myself as an American patriot. I would describe as a patriot anyone who loves his own country, but does not seek to impose his nation's will over that of another country. A patriot will fight like a lion in defense of his homeland, but will oppose the conquest of other nations. A patriot stands for free minds, free markets and a free exchange of ideas across international boundaries.In marked contrast the nationalist is a chauvinist who believes that his nation's language and culture are superior to that of all other nations. The nationalist seeks to expand his nation's boundaries and influence in the world by force or the threat of force. The nationalist regards as weak men of reason, and thinks that little is to be gain by diplomacy. The classic nationalist comment was made by Bismarck, "The issue will only be determined by blood and iron."