It's important to note that libertarianism is a broad political philosophy with a diverse range of perspectives and individuals. However, some common themes and reasons can explain why many libertarians tend to focus on constraints from the state while paying less attention to other forms of constraints on individual freedom:
Limited government: One of the foundational principles of libertarianism is the belief in limited government intervention in the lives of individuals. Libertarians advocate for a smaller and less intrusive state, as they view excessive government power as a significant threat to individual liberty. Thus, their primary concern often revolves around curbing state actions that they believe infringe upon personal freedoms.
Ideological emphasis: Libertarianism has its roots in classical liberal philosophy, which prioritizes individual liberties, property rights, and free markets. As a result, libertarians tend to concentrate on areas where they perceive the state as encroaching upon these core principles, such as taxation, regulation, and social control.
Logical consistency: Libertarian thinking emphasizes the principle of non-aggression, where the initiation of force or coercion is considered illegitimate. Therefore, for consistent libertarians, the state is often seen as the primary entity that uses coercion to enforce its policies, making it a natural target of criticism.
Unique role of the state: Libertarians see the state as an institution with a monopoly on the legitimate use of force within a given territory. Other constraints, such as social norms, economic inequalities, or cultural pressures, are seen as arising naturally and voluntarily from individuals' interactions without the use of force or coercion. Thus, they may view state action as a more significant threat to freedom due to its unique ability to compel compliance.
Practical considerations: While libertarians may acknowledge other constraints on individual freedom, they may prioritize addressing state-imposed constraints due to their direct impact on public policies and governance. Addressing state actions often requires political engagement and policy advocacy, which aligns with the practical focus of many libertarians.
It's essential to recognize that libertarian perspectives may vary, and not all libertarians disregard non-state constraints on freedom. Some may indeed be concerned about other forms of restrictions, such as economic monopolies, social norms, or cultural barriers, and may seek to address those issues through different avenues. However, the emphasis on state constraints remains a defining characteristic of libertarian thought.