How does a libertarian balance the rights of an individual against claims for the public good?

Question

How does a libertarian balance the rights of an individual against claims for the public good?

Answer 1

The people (public) consists of individuals. So the "balance" here is between the rights of one individual and the rights of other individuals.

Thinking of it in this way, rather than using misleading abstractions like "the public good", greatly clarifies matters.

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Answer 2

I don't know.

I wonder how a libertarian can balance anything when he is obviously so unbalanced.

Answer 3

Libertarianism is a reactive system.

Answer 4

The public good is the product of individuals taking care of their own needs!  If I take care of me, the "public" doesn't have to.  We (the public and me) both win!