# libertarianism

/lˌɪbətˈeəɹiənˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/libertarianism
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

the belief that people should be as free as possible from government control, especially in business and daily life.

For teachers: a political philosophy prioritising individual liberty and minimal state intervention in personal life and markets. Frequently contrasted with authoritarianism and with state-centred forms of liberalism and socialism.

## Examples

- Libertarianism supports less government and more personal freedom.
- She leans toward libertarianism because she wants lower taxes and fewer rules for small businesses.
- Modern libertarianism draws on classical liberal thought to argue that free markets and civil liberties best protect individual autonomy, even when collective action might solve shared problems faster.

## Synonyms

individualism

## Antonyms

authoritarianism, totalitarianism, collectivism

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