Congressman Ron Paul’s “The Revolution: A Manifesto” is a true awakening and a great way to “whet” both one’s libertarian feet and appetite.  Written during Ron Paul’s 2008 presidential run, it contains seven chapters where Paul tackles issues that erode many of our freedoms. He explains them in ways that are easy for anyone to comprehend. Paul also takes the time to refute the statist arguments against many of his propositions that move us toward a free society. “The Revolution” also contains a “Revolutionary Reading List” in which Dr. Paul recommends several books to help individuals who, like me at one time, may be confused as to where to start their education. Paul lists books that introduce people to ideas that were not taught in the public education system and, as such, are novel to most.  For further understanding of Congressman Paul’s ideals, I would also recommend his outstanding work, “Liberty Defined.”


Another book fundamental to my education was Murray Rothbard’s “For a New Liberty.” Rothbard’s eloquent writing style and his ability to analyze the failure of the state make it an interesting read. The book itself draws thoughts and ideas from the classical liberal tradition, Austrian economics, and the belief in natural rights. “Mr. Libertarian” makes a powerful argument for maximum freedom of the individual and exposes the state as an inadequate system that has been aggressively forced upon all of us. Similar to Paul’s book, Rothbard refutes every argument that individuals who love the state make and offers a strategy for those who advocate for liberty to help wake more people up to this message.


Similarly, I would recommend Jacob Huebert’s book “Libertarianism Today.” I had the opportunity to read Huebert’s book when I was already well-versed in the message of liberty, but can easily see its appealing to a broad spectrum of individuals.  From those just beginning to educate themselves to the veteran in the libertarian movement, this book should be in everyone’s collection and should be used as a tool to educate others. Huebert chronicles the origins and growth of the libertarian movement, illustrates the workings of freedom through numerous examples, and concisely explains the inevitability of the state’s “solutions” resulting in failure. Huebert ends each chapter with a list of recommended reading for individuals who wish to further educate themselves on the particular issue that is discussed. Huebert’s book is the best introduction to libertarianism since Murray Rothbard’s “For a New Liberty.” Prominent veterans, philosophers, and thinkers in the libertarian movement have given lavish praise for Huebert’s work. Walter Block went on to say regarding “Libertarianism Today”:  “This is a brilliant, magnificent book. It is the work of a libertarian genius, one who, happily, has many years, no, many decades, in which to make that single contribution to libertarianism I have grown to expect from this young man. I am privileged and honored to be a member of the same libertarian movement as he. If the future of liberty is in the hands of young men such as this, I cannot help but be optimistic.”


In the tumultuous times in which we live, it is more important than ever for youth to understand the principles of liberty that guided the many thinkers, writers, and philosophers who came before us. Not unlike these individuals, and despite the access to technology that many enjoy, one of the most effective ways to learn about liberty and personal freedoms remains good literature and “word of mouth”.  It is my hope that the literature suggestions offered above will serve as an introduction to the philosophy of liberty, inspiring youth to think “outside the box” for themselves and encouraging others to do so as well.  

Kevin Kelly is 21 years old, currently sits on the executive board of West Chester University's chapter of Youth for Ron Paul, founder of Chester County Ron Paul 2012, radio producer, has given numerous interviews to radio stations/shows across the country and has been featured on the LRC Blog, Antiwar.com, The Daily Local, and the Philadelphia Inquirer. He seeks to spread the message of liberty wherever and however he can.