There is a raging debate on libertarianism and the Iraq War at Crooked Timber. The discussion centers on the role played by pro-war libertarians in the blogosphere. For those who want to join in, visit here.

Hat tip to Ralph Luker at Cliopatria for calling this to my attention. I wrote the following (edited and revised) comments:

"As a long-time libertarian who writes on a predominantly antiwar libertarian website at the History News Network (Liberty and Power), I must admit to the charge of a libertarian"macho swagger" that sometimes leads to pro-war conclusions. Years ago, Michael Emerling called it the"libertarian macho flash."

Having said this, too many folks here have greatly exaggerated the influence of the"liberventionists." I think that the evidence is compelling that most active libertarians are more antiwar than either the left or right. Nearly all that I know opposed the Kosovo War.

Though several prominent libertarians support the Iraq War, I think it is still safe to say that a majority of the activists in self-identified leading libertarian organizations including the Libertarian Party, Cato, the Von Mises Institute, and the Independent Institute opposed the war from the outset."

Aeon J. Skoble - 9/24/2004

They're lucky I'm home recuperating from minor surgery today and can't weigh in. I had a quick look, and most of the comments would raise my blod pressure to intolerable levels if it weren't for the diazepam (awesome stuff!) and codeine. Just off the top of my head, Jacob Levy's original remark to Belle Waring seems right on to me. I'll be back in the office Monday, FYI.