The commonest alternative meaning of libertarian is applied to Republicans who feel alienated by what they perceive as their party's "big government" policies, especially with regard to religion. These self-described libertarians generally don't adopt the views described in the Libertarian Party's platform, such as elimination of the entire welfare system, abolition of the FCC, repeal of the Sixteenth Amendment, and legalization of all drugs.

The odd thing is, the Libertarian Party actually nominated one of these fakers in last year's presidential election. As a Congressman, Bob Barr had a long history of intrusive policy-making. While he appears to have genuinely evolved in his views on marijuana, he dodges questions about his current views on abortion and hard drugs and tries to keep the discussion focused on civil liberties.

The eminently pro-torture Glenn Beck calls himself a libertarian. So does Dennis Miller, who supports racial profiling and gun control. Even some on the left have adopted the label. The most bizarre example has to be Bill Maher, whose views on guns, education, and the environment are well within the liberal mainstream and at odds with principles espoused by movement libertarians. It's amusing to watch his many "I'm a libertarian, but...." moments on his show whenever he brings on guests like Ron Paul or Larry Elder.

Why do so many people like to call themselves libertarian when the label doesn't fit? It could be the root word liberty, which appeals naturally to Americans. Liberal has the same Latin root, but after decades of right-wing abuse the word has lost its luster.

One way or another, Americans of all political stripes want to say their political outlook starts with a belief in freedom. In his CPAC speech, Rush Limbaugh defined the cornerstone of conservatism as "individual liberty," this from a guy who supported tougher drug laws before he became a victim to them.

Maybe instead of co-opting the term libertarian, we ought to be pointing out that libertarian ideas don't necessarily lead to a freer society. For example, Ron Paul is on record having opposed the landmark Supreme Court decision Lawrence v. Texas that struck down anti-sodomy laws. He argues that the matter should be left to the states. But giving greater freedom to the states would, in this case, reduce individual liberty.

Let libertarians be libertarians. Their outlook is unique and interesting and a constructive part of our country's dialogue. It would be a shame to see the term rendered meaningless through overuse.