Research Shows Libertarians Think Differently than Conservatives, Liberals

They're highly rational and value liberty, but you knew that

If you've ever observed a group of libertarians at a bar — perhaps discussing objectivism, the Second Amendment, or marijuana, all with reverence — then you know that they are a species of political being unlike the rest of us.

But they are an important group to understand this election cycle, as topics such as the economy, the size of government and entitlements take center stage (and "Atlas Shrugged: Part II" opens in movie theaters nationwide). According to Gallup, libertarians make up about 20 percent of the electorate — and they are a vocal and influential minority, as the tea party movement has shown. The ascent of the "Atlas Shrugged"-loving Paul Ryan to the Republican ticket is another indication that the libertarian movement may be in the midst of its political moment.