Sunday, June 22, 2008

Friedman and the Austrians

Milton Friedman was often vilified by the Austrians and had a fairly well-known rivalry with Murray Rothbard. Rothbard even lectured about the shortcomings of Friedman. The Austrians took issue with his methodological practices and his willingness to compromise on certain policies and make political concessions that the Austrians would find untenable. Despite that, Friedman was no enemy of the Austrians, as this video would readily prove. In fact, I think the Austrians should acknowledge Friedman for the role he has played in forstalling the growth of government throughout his career and his continuous advocacy of everything that would promote liberty and freedom. Friedman likely preferred everything synonymous with complete laissez-faire. It would be fair to acknowledge that before criticizing him for his willingness to get his hands dirty in the thorny and contemptible world of politics. Friedman was not perfect; though none of us are.

No comments: