Scratch an egalitarian, and you will inevitably find a statist

Scratch an egalitarian, and you will inevitably find a statist

Murray Rothbard, a prominent figure in the libertarian movement, was known for his staunch opposition to statism and his unwavering commitment to individual liberty. He believed that the state was inherently coercive and that it should be limited to protecting the rights and property of its citizens. Rothbard was a vocal critic of egalitarianism, arguing that it often served as a justification for expanding the power of the state at the expense of individual freedom.

Rothbard's famous quote, "Scratch an egalitarian, and you will inevitably find a statist," encapsulates his belief that those who advocate for equality often do so through the use of state coercion. He argued that egalitarians, in their quest for equality of outcomes, inevitably turn to the state to enforce their vision of a just society. This, in turn, leads to the erosion of individual rights and the concentration of power in the hands of the state.

Rothbard believed that true equality could only be achieved through the voluntary interactions of individuals in a free market. He saw the state as a hindrance to this process, as it inevitably favored certain groups or individuals at the expense of others. In his view, the state was a tool of the ruling class to maintain their power and privilege, rather than a force for the common good.

Rothbard's critique of egalitarianism and statism has continued to resonate with libertarians and classical liberals to this day. Many see his insights as a warning against the dangers of unchecked state power and the erosion of individual rights in the name of equality. By highlighting the connection between egalitarianism and statism, Rothbard challenged his readers to question the role of the state in promoting social justice and to consider alternative, non-coercive solutions to address inequality.