The Right to Learn Without Permission

Sor Juana taught herself multiple languages, theology, mathematics, and philosophy in an era when women were legally excluded from universities. She claimed learning as an inalienable right, not a privilege granted by authority. In Libertarian justice, freedom to acquire knowledge underpins the ability to exercise property rights and participate in voluntary exchange. Without access to learning, people cannot negotiate fairly, understand contracts, or advocate for themselves. Sor Juana's self-directed education model—voracious reading, intellectual mentorship, and relentless curiosity—demonstrates that learning is a natural right, not something that requires institutional permission. She exposed how gatekeeping knowledge maintains hierarchy and prevents certain groups from claiming their full economic and intellectual agency. True libertarian justice requires removing barriers to learning so all individuals can develop their capacities and exercise informed consent.