A Libertarian Nightmare

Typically, libertarians are described as social liberals and fiscal conservatives.

That description, while simple, is fairly accurate. For example, when it comes to illicit drugs, the call for their legalization has come not from dope-smoking hippies, or those championing marijuana for medicinal purpose, but from libertarians. And they do so precisely because of the philosophy that guides libertarianism – laissez faire, which is defined as “a policy or attitude of letting things take their own course, without interfering.” In other words, hands-off, and leave things alone. In the United States, that translates into the mantra “smaller, less intrusive government,” with “less regulation.”

However, the primary problem with such an approach is that things are never “left alone.” For when they are abandoned, they are instead subjected to a torrent of change.

So, it should come as no surprise to learn that the former global haven for such trade has discovered that legalization or turning the proverbial blind eye to such issues only serves to encourage criminality.

It’s true with marijuana – the Netherlands has embarked upon changes to their formerly liberal policy to marijuana usage precisely because it has given rise to increased crime. And by the end of this year (2012), foreigners will no longer be able to purchase marijuana at the “coffee shops.”

It’s also true with prostitution.

Authorities in the Netherlands have also found that