Meaning: The quote "I think Tierney is also more libertarian than he is conservative in the conventional sense" by Daniel Okrent refers to the political leanings of John Tierney, a columnist and contributing editor for the City Journal and a former columnist for The New York Times. In this quote, Daniel Okrent is suggesting that Tierney's political views lean more towards libertarianism than traditional conservatism.

To understand the significance of this quote, it's important to unpack the terms "libertarian" and "conservative." Libertarianism is a political philosophy that emphasizes individual liberty, free markets, and limited government intervention in both economic and social matters. Libertarians generally advocate for minimal government involvement in personal and economic activities, favoring individual freedom and voluntary cooperation.

On the other hand, conservatism is a political ideology that prioritizes traditional values, limited government, free markets, and a strong national defense. Conservatives typically emphasize the importance of preserving traditional institutions and social structures, promoting individual responsibility, and upholding moral and religious values.

When Okrent suggests that Tierney is more libertarian than conservative in the conventional sense, he is highlighting the distinction between these two ideologies and implying that Tierney's views align more closely with libertarian principles than with traditional conservative beliefs.

John Tierney's work as a columnist and commentator reflects his libertarian-leaning perspective on various political and social issues. Throughout his career, he has expressed support for limited government intervention in areas such as healthcare, education, and environmental regulation. He has also been critical of excessive government spending and regulations that he views as inhibiting individual freedom and economic growth.

In addition to his views on government intervention, Tierney has advocated for individual liberty and personal responsibility in his writings. He has emphasized the importance of free-market competition, innovation, and entrepreneurship as drivers of economic prosperity and social progress. These themes align with core libertarian principles of individual autonomy and voluntary exchange.

It's worth noting that while Tierney's views may lean more towards libertarianism, he has also addressed conservative issues and perspectives in his writing. His work has touched on topics such as family values, moral issues, and the importance of preserving traditional social institutions. However, his emphasis on individual liberty and limited government intervention sets him apart from the traditional conservative stance on certain policy matters.

Overall, Daniel Okrent's quote provides insight into the nuanced distinctions between libertarianism and conservatism, as well as John Tierney's positioning within this political spectrum. By characterizing Tierney as more libertarian than conventionally conservative, Okrent highlights the diversity of thought within the broader conservative movement and underscores the significance of individual perspectives within political discourse. Tierney's contributions as a libertarian-leaning commentator serve to enrich public debate and offer alternative viewpoints on critical issues facing society.