The theory of liberty has advanced considerably in the second half of this century. Today, it may be said, without any doubt, that, at least within the field of economic theory, the triumph of the free market principles has been complete. Not only has it become obvious that real socialism is, as had been demonstrated by Mises, Hayek and other members of the Austrian School of Economics, theoretically impossible, but, in addition, the most reliable analyses are likewise showing that the interventionist economic policy followed in «mixed» economies is also doomed to failure. Moreover, works which place in evidence the crisis of the so-called «Welfare State» are continually appearing. We can, therefore, conclude that, today, at the end of the present century and on the threshold of the next one, the theoretical debate has been won by those who defend the free market economy.
However, with regard to the practical application of libertarian principles, there is still a long way to go. Even though the historic fall of real socialism in Eastern Europe has shown the impossibility of communism and certain liberalizing reforms are being made in the rest of the interventionist countries (incorrectly called «market economy» countries), there are still many difficulties to overcome. In fact, it seems as if, although the final objective pursued has become clear from a theoretical point of view, it is very difficult to begin the necessary reforms and put them into practice. Specifically, although the free market reforms have been shown to be advisable from a theoretical and even moral point of view, the argument that «their political impossibility is obvious» is often heard. In the present article, therefore, we propose to confront the objection relative to the supposed impossibility of going forward in libertarian ideology. In order to do this, we must analyze the most adequate strategy and tactics to stimulate and culminate free market reforms and the relations which should exist between the libertarian economic theorist and those politicians who wish to advance in the right direction day by day.
We will study below, firstly, the reasons which are usually alleged to justify the supposed political impossibility of advancing in putting free market ideology into practice, reviewing a number of recent historical examples which, to a greater or lesser extent clearly refute the pessimism which exists in this field. Subsequently, we will present the strategy that we consider most fitting to surmount the barrier of what is considered «politically impossible» from three points of view: theoretical, ethical and historical. After proposing an inventory of activities that can and should be promoted in order to bring about a change in the right direction in public opinion, we will highlight the important role of politicians in general and libertarian politicians in particular. A classification of professional politicians into four different types in accordance with their commitment to the theory and practice of liberty and an analysis of the most important circumstances that influence their behaviour, together with a list of recommended practices which we consider important for all libertarians who decide to enter politics, will bring the present work to an end.
«No part of this work may be reprinted or reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter
invented, including photocopying and recording, or in any information
storage or retrieval system, without citing the name of the author and the
source from which it has been taken.»