Radicals and Reactionaries: The Strange History of Libertarian Thought

Libertarianism is often thought to be an ideology of the extreme right. But as Matt Zwolinski and John Tomasi demonstrate in their recent book, "The Individualists", libertarianism actually emerged in the mid-nineteenth century with an unwavering commitment to progressive causes, from women’s rights and the fight against slavery to anti-colonialism and Irish emancipation. Today, this movement founded on the principle of individual liberty finds itself divided by both progressive and reactionary elements vying to claim it as their own.

In this talk, Matt Zwolinski discusses the untold story of a political doctrine continually reshaped by fierce internal tensions, bold and eccentric personalities, and shifting political circumstances. He traces the history of libertarianism from its origins as a radical progressive ideology in the 1850s to its crisis of identity today, examining the doctrine’s evolution through six defining themes: private property, skepticism of authority, free markets, individualism, spontaneous order, and individual liberty. Matt shows how the movement took a turn toward conservatism during the Cold War, when the dangers of communism at home and abroad came to dominate libertarian thinking.

Audiences will come away with an appreciation for a political tradition that is wider, more diverse, and more contentious than many of us realize. And a better understanding of how that tradition illuminates the political landscape of today.

Understanding the Universal Basic Income (UBI)

From Finland to Kenya to Stockton, California, more and more governments and private philanthropic organizations are putting the idea of a Universal Basic Income to the test. But can the reality live up to the hype?

The motivating idea of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) is radically simple: give people cash and let them do whatever they want with it. But does this simple idea have the potential to radically transform our society? Is a UBI the ultimate solution to the problem of poverty? Is it the solution to automation-induced unemployment? On the other side, would a basic income simply be too expensive? Would it lead to large increases in unemployment? Or inflation?

In this talk, Matt Zwolinski provides audiences with all the information they need to understand current debates about the UBI. Matt discusses the history of the idea and current pilot programs in the United States and around the world. He explores both the promises and pitfalls of a UBI, explaining why the UBI has attracted supporters from all across the ideological spectrum, and what the chances are of seeing a permanent UBI implemented in the near future.

Political Conformity in Higher Education

America is becoming increasingly politically polarized, and higher education is no exception to this trend. Over the last 30 years, university faculties have grown increasingly liberal, and the number of faculty who identify as conservative has plummeted. This imbalance is especially pronounced in the social sciences and the humanities, the two areas where political ideology plays the largest role in the curriculum.

In this talk, Matt Zwolinski explains the degree of political imbalance in American Universities, how it has changed over time, and why this political polarization should be a matter of concern for anyone, regardless of where they fall on the political spectrum. The talk concludes with suggestions on the steps we can all take to promote a more open and diverse intellectual environment in higher education.