A Swedish historian and author who writes about globalization, entrepreneurship, and individual freedom, known for his documentaries and books that promote libertarian and classical liberal ideas.
Johan Norberg is a Swedish author and historian of ideas, renowned for promoting economic globalization and classical liberal positions through his writings and documentaries. He is best known for his thought-provoking books, including In Defense of Global Capitalism (2001), Progress: Ten Reasons to Look Forward to the Future (2016), and The Capitalist Manifesto: Why the Global Free Market Will Save the World (2023).
Norberg was born in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1973, to Erik Norberg, the former Swedish National Archivist, and his wife Birgitta. He grew up in the western Stockholm suburb of Hsselby, where he developed an interest in anarchism during his high school days. However, upon discovering the collectivist themes in anarchist literature, Norberg became disillusioned and began to embrace classical liberalism, which he believed took individual freedom more seriously.
Norberg pursued his higher education at Stockholm University, where he studied from 1992 to 1999, earning a Master's degree in the history of ideas. He also delved into philosophy, literature, and political science, and was active in the libertarian network Frihetsfronten (Liberty Front). During this period, he edited the journal Nyliberalen (The Neoliberal/Libertarian) from 1993 to 1997.
In 1997, Norberg was approached by the Swedish liberal think tank Timbro to write a book about the Swedish author Vilhelm Moberg. The resulting book, Motstndsmannen Vilhelm Moberg, became a bestseller, sparking widespread interest in Norberg's work.
Since 2007, Norberg has been a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, a prominent libertarian think tank. In 2017, he became an executive editor at Free To Choose Media, where he produces documentaries for US public television. These documentaries often explore the benefits of economic globalization and the power of individual freedom.
Norberg's work is deeply rooted in classical liberal philosophy, which emphasizes individual liberty, limited government intervention, and free markets. He argues that economic globalization is a key driver of progress, as it allows for the free exchange of ideas, goods, and services across national borders.
Through his writings and documentaries, Norberg aims to challenge common misconceptions about globalization, capitalism, and individual freedom. He believes that these concepts, when practiced correctly, can lead to unprecedented economic growth, innovation, and human prosperity.
Norberg's work has had a significant impact on modern society, inspiring a new generation of thinkers and policymakers to reexamine the role of government in economic affairs. His documentaries, in particular, have reached a wide audience, sparking important conversations about the benefits and challenges of globalization.
As a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, Norberg has contributed to the development of policy initiatives that promote individual freedom, limited government, and free markets. His work has also influenced the broader libertarian movement, inspiring many to advocate for classical liberal values.
Norberg has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to economic thought and classical liberal philosophy. These include the Antony Fisher International Memorial Award, the Bastiat Prize for Journalism, and the Hayek Lifetime Achievement Award.
In addition to his professional achievements, Norberg has overcome personal challenges, including a bout of severe depression in his early twenties. This experience has given him a unique perspective on the importance of individual freedom and the need for governments to prioritize human well-being.
Through his journey, Norberg has remained committed to promoting classical liberal values and challenging the status quo. His unwavering dedication to individual freedom, economic globalization, and human prosperity has made him a respected voice in modern economic thought.
Born in 1912
A Nobel Prize-winning economist who championed free market capitalism and limited government intervention, known for his advocacy of laissez-faire economics and influential writings on monetary policy.
89 Years Old
A physician-turned-politician who championed libertarian ideals and ran for US president multiple times, known for his advocacy of limited government and individual freedoms.
71 Years Old
The 29th Governor of New Mexico, a Libertarian presidential candidate, and entrepreneur who advocates for limited government and individual freedom. Known for his unconventional style and views on drug legalization.
Born in 1905
Russian-born American novelist and philosopher who wrote influential novels like "The Fountainhead" and "Atlas Shrugged", promoting individualism and capitalism.
85 Years Old
A renowned philosopher who challenged traditional notions of justice, morality, and the role of government, known for his influential book "Anarchy, State, and Utopia".
Born in 1881
A pioneer of Austrian economics, he developed the concept of praxeology, which focuses on human action and its consequences, and is known for his critiques of socialism and central planning.
