Limits on Self-Ownership? – Econlib

Should Government Set Limits on Self-Ownership for Libertarians?

Monte, a frequent commenter on a blog post titled “Mind Your Own Business!”, raised an interesting question about the role of government in setting limits on self-ownership for Libertarians. This question is not only of specific interest but also holds broader implications, hence I am addressing it in a new article rather than in the comments section.

Firstly, it’s important to distinguish between “Libertarian” with a capital “L”, which typically refers to members of the Libertarian Party, and small “l” libertarians like myself who may not be affiliated with any political party. For the purpose of this discussion, I will focus on the views of small “l” libertarians.

As an individual libertarian, I believe that government should not play a role in setting limits on self-ownership for mentally sound adults. However, exceptions should be made for children and adults who are not of sound mind.

When it comes to defining the age limit for being considered a child, I personally adhere to the age of 18 as a cutoff point. While this may seem arbitrary, determining maturity based on the ability to make informed decisions is a complex issue. For instance, decisions regarding irreversible procedures like gender transition surgery should not be left to minors.

For individuals under the age of 18, the question arises as to who should make decisions on their behalf. While some, like Libertarian Party candidate Chase Oliver, argue that parents should have the authority, ethical dilemmas emerge when considering extreme cases such as allowing a minor to consume harmful substances like heroin.

Similarly, determining mental competence for self-ownership poses challenges. While I believe that individuals with severe cognitive impairments may not be of sound mind, setting a specific IQ threshold is arbitrary and subject to debate.

In conclusion, the principle of self-ownership for libertarians entails minimal government interference for mentally competent adults, with considerations for minors and individuals lacking decision-making capacity. The nuances of age limits and mental competence underscore the complexity of balancing individual autonomy with societal protection.