Latter-day Libertarianism In the Mormon Church, selflessness and generosity are advocated from the pulpit and throughout the scriptures. We learn what the ideal society looks like: no poverty, no classes, just people living in harmony with each other and with God. It looks beautiful and the spirit inspires us to emulate it. We also learn that certain things are wrong in the eyes of the Lord – homosexual acts, addiction, gambling, etc., and that such things are to be avoided. In contrast, libertarianism promotes a government that does not require its constituents to provide aid to the destitute. Furthermore, the ideal libertarian government does not impose morality. The only ethical application foreseen in its framework is the protection of individual freedom and all that this entails. At first glance, these two ideologies, one religious and the other political, may seem opposite. In my mind, however, they walk hand in hand. To clarify, I am not arguing that libertarianism is the only political theory justifiable through the teachings of the church. I'm sure that church intellectuals in various parties could argue that the gospel better supports their political perspectives, and that they could do so convincingly. I intend to propose only reasons why libertarianism is compatible with the Gospel. I do this to foster open-mindedness toward libertarianism among church members; and, at the very least, promote a more accepting attitude towards libertarian members. If I helped some members realize their own libertarianism in the process, I would be thrilled. Converting everyone to libertarianism, however, is not my goal. If we want to talk about libertarianism, we must first establish what it is. It is complex and includes... half of the article......hormonism>.McKay, David O. "Peace the Message of the Church -David O. Mckay - Latter-day Conservative." Latter-day Conservative: Prophets of the Church, America, Liberty, Constitution, Mormon Politics. LDS Freedom Network, October 1938. Web. May 11, 2012. .Packer, Boyd K. “Teach Them Correct Principles – General Conference.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, April 1990. Web. May 11, 2012..Reeve, Chris. “Open Letter to Mormons Concerning Ron Paul, Part II: The Book of Mormon Takes a Dim View of Taxation by Chris Reeves.” LewRockwell.com. LewRockwell.com, December 12, 2007. Web. May 11 2012. .