Ideologies / Libertarian / Robert Nozick
§ The minds · 1938–2002 · United States · Philosopher
Robert Nozick
The minimal state
Rights as side-constraints; nothing more is justified.
Economic+70
SocialistMarket
Governance−50
LibertarianAuthoritarian
Social+5
TraditionalProgressive
The Harvard philosopher whose 'Anarchy, State, and Utopia' made the rigorous case that only a minimal state can be justified without violating individual rights.
social
Liberal on personal conduct; the individual as an end in themselves.
economic
Entitlement theory of justice — holdings justly acquired are inviolable.
governance
Only a 'night-watchman' state, limited to protection, is legitimate.
Notable for
- 'Anarchy, State, and Utopia'
- Entitlement theory of justice
- Reply to Rawls
§ The minds nearest Nozick
How close are you to Nozick?
Two minutes, three axes, 729 named ideologies — and your own affinity score with every mind on this page.
Take the quiz →Visit the Libertarian hall