Why Government Power Must Be Limited

If only the right people were in power, could they fix everything?

Barbara Galletti
Barbara Galletti
PUBLISHED IN Self-Government - Jul 22, 2026

The idea of limited government begins with a simple observation: because human beings are imperfect, government power must be constrained. The authorities granted to today’s leaders will eventually belong to tomorrow’s leaders, and perhaps people with very different values.

In this introduction to limited government, we explore where the idea came from, why it emerged, and the institutions that help preserve it today. From the Magna Carta and the struggle to limit monarchs, to the American Founding and constitutional government, this video examines one of the most important principles that helps maintain societies free.

In this video:

00:00 – Introduction

00:55 – What Is Limited Government?

01:38 – The Origins of Limited Government

04:00 – US Founding and Limited Government

04:33 – Institutions That Limit Government Power

05:24 – Why Does Limited Government Matter?

This is the seventh episode of our Learning Hub series. Subscribe to never miss one of our lessons!

Resources:

Limited Government, Stephen Davies

Are libertarians anti-​government?, David Boaz

Separation of Church and State, Jason Kuznicki

Limited Government and the Rule of Law, Tom Palmer

Limited Government, David Boaz

---

Republished from Libertarianism.org

Share this article

Recommended Reading

The Final Freedom: A Case for the Right to Die with a Dignified Exit
Self-Government

The Final Freedom: A Case for the Right to Die with a Dignified Exit

If we truly own our minds and bodies, should we also own the final chapter of our lives? A libertarian case for the right to die with dignity.

6 min read

Don't Argue with the Dark Room. Turn on the Light.
Self-Government

Don't Argue with the Dark Room. Turn on the Light.

When theft is reframed as justice, the moral foundations of civilization begin to erode.

6 min read

Trapped in the Invisible Time Cage
Self-Government

Trapped in the Invisible Time Cage

High Time Preference Makes You Easy to Rule

9 min read