Many people have a highly diverse group of friends. They are all different ages, backgrounds, ethnic and sexual identities, and have widely varying systems of belief. 

They treat each other and everyone else they meet with respect and are tolerant and embracing of each other’s differences. They are always open to go down a deep rabbit hole of conversation, tell a joke, or build a movement

These friends sound like libertarians.

Libertarians fancy ourselves as students of politics, history, literature, philosophy, science, culture and much more. Every individual libertarian has their own unique areas of interest. This means that no two libertarians view the world exactly the same way as each other. 

These conditions make the liberty movement one of free-flowing ideas sewn together into a colorful patchwork that is constantly being updated and revisited. We read feverishly and the truth is of keen importance to us.

Libertarians enjoy the journey as much as the destination. That is why we talk so much, in fact, we never shut up. We regularly discuss, debate, and dissect ideas with one another over a cup of coffee, beer, or if you’re adventurous, a joint. 

We do not view our critics as mortal enemies, but rather as misguided peers that, regardless of our areas of divergence, always share a sliver of common human existence. When you view yourself and everyone else as individuals, it is easy to relate to mostly anyone.

Libertarians have a tremendous sense of humor. Comedy is speaking truth to power. We not only speak truth when we criticize politicians and pundits; we also make fun of them. Whether it’s Joe Biden falling off his bike, Donald Trump’s small hands, or Ben Shapiro’s rendition of “WAP”, we find the bright side of every situation. 

We are not easy to offend. We always assume the best intentions of everyone, until proven otherwise. We make great comedians and even greater comedy audiences.

Libertarians are also industrious. We challenge ourselves and our peers to do our best and explore new horizons. We are never content with the way that things are and are always looking forward. 

We know that positive change doesn’t come from reposting hashtags or rhetorically uttering talking points in the comment section. We build student clubs, groups, social networks, and relationships to assemble our like-minded peers. 

Lastly, libertarians are everywhere. We come from all walks of life. We dwell in every city, state, and country. We are part of families, neighborhoods, and communities. We always know where to find our friends when we travel. And when we do find them, we always have a great time. 

We support each other and build each other up. We are united only by the common interest of peacefully building a freer society that champions liberty for all. That is our dream and we want to make it yours.

In an age of atomization, loneliness, and toxic social media culture, libertarians may well be your best bet for a healthy, consistent, and rewarding social experience.

Come join us, friend.

If you are interested in getting involved in promoting the ideas of liberty while also developing your skills and meeting many like-minded students from across the world, click on the button below to apply now to join Students For Liberty’s Local Coordinator Program.



This piece solely expresses the opinion of the author and not necessarily the organization as a whole. Students For Liberty is committed to facilitating a broad dialogue for liberty, representing a variety of opinions. The opinions expressed in this piece are those solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States government or Department of Defense.