Before we get to the article I want to clarify that I believe there are two kinds of collectivism. There is the natural, organic collectivism that is society and the social order of a place and time. And then there is the artificial, central planning collectivism that is the state and is universal and absolute and abstract.

Individualism tends to run counter to both. It need not, it can be seen as a method of analyzing action in a society.

You’re All A Bunch of Collectivists

Collectivism is a poison. I have been appalled to see so many of my friends, both on the left and the right, indulging in it.

...But whether you advocate some form of socialism or express nationalist sympathies, both are contrary to the spirit of individualism. Both claim to advance freedom but inevitably lead down the road to serfdom.

...“The Great Utopia,” as the chapter is called, refers to the belief that true happiness and equality can only be obtained in a society that sacrifices individual will in favor of “protecting” the collective. For socialists, equality means no one should need to worry about providing life’s necessities. The state provides for all equally and everyone lives happily ever after.

For nationalists or fascists, the same line of thinking occurs, but it is justified by this allegiance and connections to one’s homeland or class or race of people. In order to “secure” the future of your homeland or whatever group you are in support of, you must give your power over to an authority who will ensure lasting security.

And while in 2017 we are still arguing over which flavor of collectivism is better suited for the country, Hayek had in 1944 already laid out the information needed to conclude that neither is compatible with individual liberty.

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