Jessica Flanigan

Libertarianism: The Basics is an up-to-date and accessible introduction to libertarianism that breaks down abstract philosophical ideas in a fresh way. Flanigan and Freiman interweave a wide-ranging survey of different libertarian philosophical traditions, with a discussion of libertarian perspectives on various applied topics of contemporary interest. Chapters introduce readers to the major theoretical debates in libertarianism, illustrating these debates through real-world policy case studies that draw on contemporary issues concerning criminal justice reform, immigration policy, national security, the environment, and more. Ideal for teaching and appropriate for students at all levels, including high school, Libertarianism: The Basics will be the go-to text for anyone who is interested in learning more about political philosophy, applied ethics, philosophy, politics, economics, and public policy. The authors present arguments and ideas through a series of historical and contemporary cases, making the book suitable for all readers who want to learn about cutting-edge libertarian views on matters in both political philosophy and public policy.

Grammatical errors and orthographic mishaps are often played for laughs, but this subtle sanctioning by the sticklerocracy can have real social consequences too. Attention to prescriptive spelling and grammar rules is insidious and harmful.As Jessica Flanigan argues in Why It?s OK to Have Bad Spelling and Grammar, grammarianism often maintains hierarchies, entrenches the advantages of privileged groups, and imposes arbitrary barriers to knowledge production and innovation. For example, the stigmatization of bad spelling and grammar disadvantages linguistic minorities, non-native speakers, and people with disabilities. Spelling and grammar norms are also frequently arbitrary and unnecessary. The petty grammandos among us, who cling to pedantic linguistic conventions, are standing in the way of innovative forms of communication and efficient speech, such as the emoji ?. For these reasons, Flanigan argues that bad spelling and grammar are OK. It?s time to break free from the tyranny of the grammilitia in the name of comprehension and creativity. As long as speakers and writers can effectively communicate to charitable listeners and readers, people shouldn?t care about bad spelling and grammar.Key FeaturesExplains why spelling tests and spelling bees are counterproductive in achieving literacy and better communicationEngages with the history of language policing and the brave anti-grammarian resistanceDescribes some of the key benefits of linguistic liberalismProposes a political agenda to resist the sticklerocracy and overthrow a world of word nerds