Originally Posted by Skerlnik

I own up that I have, on occassion, expressed that I think the Libertarian philosophy is "self-centered". While it is more of an indictment of the philosophy itself, it's not AS directed towards the individual (if I fail to generally make that clear, that is my fault, and I apologize for it.)

But, most often in discussions, the folks espousing Libertarianism express things as "me-me-me": "Why should I have to do X?", as if those that are disagreeing with them formulate policy specifically to punish an individual.

Yes, I do think there is an element of egocentrism and haughty individualism to the Libertarian philosophy, as I understand it. Things are generally expressed in terms of MY RIGHTS, with little acknowledgment of society at large or responsibility to others, hence my opinion of selfishness. There's very little in Libertarianism that defines a "public good". In that, anyone with a more collectivistic philosophy is going to be fundamentally repulsed.

And, perhaps, I am conflating people's personal philosophy, with a more formal "definition" of Libertarianism.

Again, I apologize if the terms "selfish", self-centered" or "greedy" are poorly chosen.