Libertarians

I really must object to the characterization of the Libertarian Party in your Decision ’92 section (Oct. 25) as promoting “a synthesis of social Darwinism. . . .” The Libertarian Party clearly takes a position in opposition to contemporary social Darwinism, which manifests itself through well-organized political minorities, who, by marshalling 218 congressmen or 54 Assemblymen, can and do engage in the systematic plunder of the taxpayer.

You ignored the emphasis, clearly seen in the Libertarian Party’s Statement of Principles, of the principle of voluntary action in society and the eschewing of coercion. Coercion is the essence of social and biological Darwinism. For instance, Libertarians do not advocate that the poor should not be helped, but that they should be helped by voluntary, not coercive, means.

To describe us accurately, you should have said: “Libertarians promote a synthesis of the principles of voluntary action, individualism, the free market, and respect for the free choices of individuals in all areas of life, while recognizing the individual’s responsibility for the results of his own choices.”

JOHN VERNON

Member of the Executive Committee

Libertarian Party of California