The concept of the “minimal state,” central to classical liberal and libertarian political theory, advocates a state apparatus whose functions are strictly confined to the enforcement of contracts, protection of individual rights, maintenance of law and order, and national defense. This theoretical construct rests on a foundational commitment to individual liberty, private property, and voluntary … Continue reading To what extent does the theoretical construct of the “minimal state”—as articulated within classical liberal and libertarian traditions—advance the protection of individual liberty by limiting the functions of government to core responsibilities such as defense, law enforcement, and the protection of property rights, and what are the normative and practical critiques of this conception within contemporary political theory?