The Favor I Wish I Could Return to Conservatives

About five years ago, I was a recovering liberal. My discovery and dedication to my religion was gradually leading me to a more conservative view of social issues, and a college economics course (combined with an open mind) was gradually leading me to a fascination with the power of voluntary exchange.

I was having a friendly discussion with a conservative friend of mine at work one day on the topic of health care. This had been a hot topic during the 2004 presidential election, and it’s only been hotter since. I mentioned to my friend that health care was one of those few industries and services that were too important to be left to the free market. I still supported a government-run program of some sort.

I credit my friend with sublime self-control as he fought the urge to mock me. Read more >>

Dangerous Criminals Braiding Hair Without a License in Utah

The Institute for Justice is standing up for Jestina and others by filing a lawsuit against the state. You can do your part by donating to the cause.

Why You Don’t Actually Believe in Free Markets

Dear Conservative Friend,

I’m writing to apologize for laughing the other day when you called yourself a “libertarian-leaning conservative”. It’s just that I know you well enough to know that your political views are decidedly conservative. That’s why I asked you what you meant. You answered, “I’m libertarian in that I believe in free markets, in freedom of exchange.” Again, I must apologize for replying, “Yeah, and I’m outdoorsy in that I like getting drunk on patios.”

I decided to write this letter to you to clarify my amusement with your comment. At the time, my thoughts weren’t organized as you caught me quite off guard. But now, I’m fully prepared to explain to you why you actually do not believe in free markets.

Read more >>

Why Does Utah Tolerate a Socialized Beverage Industry?

The term “socialism” gets thrown around a lot these days, and it has almost come to the point where I automatically dismiss the arguments of anyone who uses it. Socialism refers to an economic situation wherein the means and control of production are owned by the state instead of the market. Most of the situations in our country today that those on the right label “socialist” are actually corporatist, i.e. state controls or favors used to manipulate or unfairly benefit private firms or corporations.

In Utah, however, we have an industry that has actually been socialized, and has been since 1935: the alcoholic beverage industry. The state has a forced monopoly here, with wine and spirits being available only at state liquor stores. The sale of other beverages is highly regulated, with mandated labels on certain drinks and the prohibition of sales on Sunday in many areas. Stringent licensing requirements are necessary for clubs and bars to serve alcohol. And the state charges a “statutory markup” on beverages, artificially inflating prices.

Read more >>