Which political theory emphasizes the role of the individual in government?

Libertarianism is a political theory that places a strong emphasis on individual liberty and autonomy as central values in governance. It advocates for minimal government intervention in both personal and economic matters, arguing that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices, as long as they do not infringe on the rights of others. This focus on the individual reflects a belief in personal responsibility, voluntary associations, and a free market, where the roles and functions of government are limited primarily to protecting individual rights, providing for public safety, and maintaining the rule of law.

In contrast, the other political theories listed do not prioritize the role of the individual in the same way. Oligarchy suggests governance by a small group of elites, often at the expense of individual input or rights. Authoritarianism emphasizes obedience to a central authority and typically limits personal freedoms in favor of state control. Totalitarianism not only restricts individual freedom but seeks to control every aspect of public and private life through extensive regulation, censorship, and repression. Thus, libertarianism stands out as the theory that fundamentally champions the individual's role and rights within the framework of government.