Tom G. Palmer

“What we mean by 'capitalism' is a system of free and voluntary exchange—a system of property rights and the rule of law.”

“Peace is the natural effect of trade.”

“The market process is a discovery process.”

“Socialism is not a new idea. It is, in fact, the default condition of mankind. It is tribalism.”

“Protectionism is a politician's racket. It's a way of rewarding political friends at the expense of everyone else.”

“The institution of private property is the most important institution of civilization.”

“Every act of the state is an act of coercion.”

“Free markets are not a zero-sum game. They are a positive-sum game where voluntary exchange creates wealth.”

“The fight for freedom is a global struggle. It is not confined to one country or one continent.”

“The welfare state is the oldest con game in the world. First you take people's money away quietly and then you give some of it back to them flamboyantly.”

“A free society is a society in which all people are free to engage in any peaceful activity, so long as they don't violate the equal rights of others.”

“Rights are not gifts from the state; they are inherent in our nature as human beings.”

“The only proper purpose of law is to protect the rights of individuals.”

“Intolerance is the natural companion of coercion.”

“Liberty is not a means to a higher political end. It is itself the highest political end.”

“The path to freedom is illuminated by reason and paved with courage.”

“Voluntary action is the moral foundation of a good society.”

“The cause of liberty is the cause of humanity.”

“Individualism, properly understood, is not selfishness. It is the recognition that every person has a right to his or her own life and happiness.”

“Government is the agent of coercion; it has a monopoly on the legal use of force.”