The Oxford Libertarian Society exists to promote and propagate the ideas of libertarianism and classical liberalism. The society organises speaker events and debates with libertarian academics and public figures to discuss the ideas of individual liberty, private property and free markets.The society was renamed in 2008 from its original name, the Oxford Hayek Society, to reflect a renewed effort to reach out to a wider student audience.

History

Founded in 1983, the Hayek Society similarly focused on exploring libertarian ideas, in the context of the resurgent popularity of classical liberalism through the contemporary works of F A Hayek (after whom the society was named), Milton Friedman, Robert Nozick and Murray Rothbard. This reawakening led three postgraduate students - Hannes Hólmsteinn Gissurarson, Chandran Kukathas and Andrew Melnyk - to establish a society devoted to "a sympathetic, but scholarly, discussion of the problems and principles of classical liberalism."

Academics from within and outside the university were invited to address the society on issues relating to political philosophy, economics and public policy. Amongst the speakers addressing the society in its 25 year history are such diverse figures as Friedrich Hayek, Hillel Steiner, Richard Ebeling, Peter Boettke, Tim Congdon, Chris Tame and John Gray. More recently, the society has hosted Israel Kirzner, Congressman Bob Barr, Yaron Brook, Chandran Kukathas, David Friedman and the founders of the UK Libertarian Party.

The society also has well-established links with several classical liberal think-tanks, including the Institute for Economic Affairs, the Libertarian Alliance and the Adam Smith Institute.

The Oxford Libertarian Society is affiliated with the Liberty League an organisation and a network for societies across the intellectual and political spectrum, helping to inform, recruit and develop supporters of Liberty.