Which philosophy values freedom above all else?

Libertarianism is the philosophy that emphasizes individual freedom as the highest value. Central to this philosophy is the belief that individuals should have the autonomy to make their own choices without interference from the government or other institutions, as long as their actions do not infringe on the rights of others. Libertarians prioritize personal liberty, believing that freedom is essential for human flourishing and that the role of government should be limited to protecting individual rights rather than dictating behavior or promoting collective goals.

In contrast, other philosophies, such as utilitarianism, focus on the greatest good for the greatest number, which can sometimes justify limiting individual freedoms for the sake of societal welfare. Communitarianism emphasizes the importance of community and social responsibilities, often balancing individual rights with the needs of the community. Sociobiology, while related to the biological basis of social behavior, does not prioritize freedom as a philosophical tenet in the same way libertarianism does. Consequently, libertarianism stands out as the philosophy that places the highest value on individual freedom and autonomy.