The Rise of the Libertarian Authoritarian: Navigating the Paradox in Modern Politics

In recent years, the political landscape has witnessed a remarkable resurgence of libertarianism, but not in its traditional guise. This modern incarnation melds staunch advocacy for individual freedom with a surprising embrace of authoritarian principles. High-profile proponents, including Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, and Argentine president-elect Javier Milei, exemplify this trend, showcasing a libertarianism steeped in authoritarian elements.

At the heart of this movement lies a deep skepticism towards the democratic state, seen not as a market facilitator, but as a suppressor of personal liberty. This critique extends beyond government to encompass a broader rejection of multiculturalism and enforced solidarity with marginalized groups, a sentiment that gained momentum during the Covid-19 pandemic's restrictive measures.

In this new political reality, where individual freedom intertwines with authoritarian tendencies, we encounter a paradoxical blend of libertarianism and authoritarianism, reshaping the very essence of modern political discourse.

The concept of a libertarian prophet is not novel, with Ayn Rand being a prominent historical figure. However, the expansion of this ideology's social base, particularly in Germany and across Europe, signals a new development. The emergent libertarian-authoritarian personality represents a dark evolution in late modernity, combining elements of classical authoritarianism with a rejection of traditional values like discipline and orderliness.

This new breed of libertarians, well-educated and emboldened by their post-authoritarian, liberal upbringing, increasingly challenge institutional authority, armed with a mix of evidence, rumors, and conspiracy theories. Their stance is a manifestation of the hyper-empowerment of individuals, a byproduct of liberal modernity's institutional advancements. Yet, this empowerment comes with a cost – a declining grasp of the complexities of the world and a reliance on pseudo-scientific reasoning and post-truth politics.

The roots of libertarian authoritarianism can also be traced to neoliberalism, which has long portrayed political and social institutions as antagonistic to market and individual interests. Despite unprecedented levels of individual freedom, social constraints persist. The result is a growing sense of transcendental homelessness, a loss of spiritual meaning in a relentlessly rational and secular capitalist modernity. This void is increasingly filled by esoteric communities and alternative forms of spiritual sense-making.

Libertarianism today is not just about championing individual rights; it has evolved into a complex ideology where personal freedoms often come with a hint of authoritarian control.

The libertarian-authoritarian personality's hallmark is an aggressive rejection of any form of authority that does not align with their individual conception of freedom. This stance is often underpinned by conspiracy theories, leading to a form of critique that blurs the line between legitimate skepticism and outright rejection of democratic principles.

Despite their critical stance towards liberal democracy, these individuals often view themselves as true democrats. However, their disappointment in democratic systems renders them susceptible to authoritarian drifts, maintaining a long-term right-wing orientation.

The libertarian authoritarians' antagonism is primarily directed against the modern state, perceived as a relic of class oppression. They view themselves as victims of progressive elites who have usurped control of key institutions. This new divide between the illiberal rule of these elites and the democratic majority underscores a growing conflict in societal values and norms.

This emergent libertarian-authoritarian personality, a byproduct of late modernity, signals a shift in societal values and challenges our conventional understanding of political categorizations.

Today's battles over freedom are not just ideological but also a consequence of the diminishing social rights in the wake of democratic inclusion. The rise of libertarian authoritarianism and new forms of ungovernability are symptomatic of late-modern societies' struggle with a polycrisis. This ongoing state of emergency, coupled with a paternalistic liberalism that shies away from transformative solutions, has deepened citizen alienation, setting the stage for this new political paradox.