> when much of their policies seem to be based on a lack of empathy This is a misunderstanding. The difference is not in the presence or absence of empathy, bu

> when much of their policies seem to be based on a lack of empathy This is a misunderstanding. The difference is not in the presence or absence of empathy, but rather in how that empathy is expressed: private interaction or government programs. The libertarians are not lacking in empathy; they just don't see it as a suitable justification for political action. Of course, if you only discuss the problem from a political angle, and consider only political solutions, then it would indeed seem like they aren't interested in solving it at all, when in fact they are very interested in finding a solution—just one that doesn't involve force.