Libertarian Party College Scholarships
Action and Principle
Founded in 1971 in the United States of America, the Libertarian Party takes a strong stance on civil liberties, laissez-faire principles, minimal government involvement, unrestricted self-defense rights, abolition of victimless crime laws, and belief in a government which is required to be fiscally responsible.
In 2006, the number of Libertarian Party members numbered over 200,000; and in 2004 this third party achieved a first: over 1 million votes for their candidate three times consecutively. At that time, they also had over 600 of their members in public office. The Libertarian Party is the third largest political party in the U.S.
Statement of Principles
The Libertarian Party's "Statement of Principles" outlines their core beliefs. According to the statement, every individual has 'sole dominion over their own life' as long as it does not interfere in the right of others for the same. The Libertarian Party claims the title of The Party with Principles.
Two-Dimensional Political System
The Libertarian Party's Nolan Chart underscores their belief that the political system is two-dimensional rather than one-dimensional. It uses The World's Smallest Political Quiz to help individuals better determine their own political leanings rather than depend upon the traditional conservative right/liberal left classifications. It has divided political views into five basic categories: Centrist, Left (Liberal), Libertarian, Right (Conservative), and Statist (Big Government). The quiz scores are based upon 'agree', 'disagree' and 'maybe' answers to 10 brief questions regarding political issues.
The Differences
While there are issues with significant differences in viewpoint, to many the Libertarian Party seems closely related to the Republican Party, with which it does have some influence and clear political ties. Libertarian candidates have been known to throw their support behind Republican candidates from time to time. But on the other hand, Libertarians have also been vigilant in trying to defeat their Republican counterparts.
Joining the Libertarian Party
To become a Sustaining Member of the Libertarian Party, an annual membership fee is required. The fee includes an official membership card and a one-year subscription to their magazine. Lifetime memberships are also available.
Where the Libertarian Party May Be Found
Headquarters for the Libertarian Party is located in Washington, D.C. Many high school and university campuses across the country have Libertarian Party organizations. All 50 states have a branch of their own of the Libertarian Party.
The Libertarian Leadership School
Supporters of the Libertarian Leadership School have provided enough in donations for 160 students to be sponsored. The purpose of the school is to teach their students in a minimum of a 6-week course a variety of political topics including being a candidate and accessing the ballot. Coursework involves three segments: Affiliate Training, Campaign Training, and Electives. For more information regarding this school and obtaining sponsorship, please contact the Libertarian Leadership School directly.
Libertarian Training Weekends
In previous years, weekend training conferences have been held to help Libertarians learn more about the political process including how to run an effective campaign. Some have offered scholarships to help reduce costs. For more information, contact the Libertarian Office closest to you.
