Murray N. Rothbard (1926-1995) – the greatest libertarian theorist of the 20th century – expressed what he considered to be the central political issue confronting mankind. He wrote, “My own basic perspective on the history of man…is to place central importance on the great conflict which is eternally waged between Liberty and Power.”1 Liberty v. Power. In its most blatant form, the struggle manifests itself as war between the peaceful, productive individual and the intrusive State that usurps those products. The tension between freedom and authority is hardly a new subject for political commentary. But Rothbard managed to bring a newness to everything he touched intellectually.
Murray would have been 84 today. Please take a few moments to check out this article by Wendy McElroy in order to gain a better understanding of one of the founders of our movement. Although not as popular as Hayek and Friedman in the minds of many, Mr. Rothbard’s contributions to the world of economics is surpassed by few.