Liberalism Is Worth Saving. Here’s How.

Liberalism once held strong, implementing its ideals both indirectly and directly through the establishment of democratic institutions. It yielded tangible results. However, it became entrenched in the establishment, embraced by politicians, bureaucrats, and activists. This establishment liberalism failed to adapt to new realities and often lost sight of some of liberalism's core values.

The issue lies in several concurrent trends: the postindustrial economy made it difficult for liberal democracy to fulfill its promises, and as the college-educated segment of society grew more dominant, liberal democracies became less inclined to address postindustrial challenges faced by less educated individuals. The sin of omission was that liberalism became less interested in solving problems that heavily impacted the less privileged.

The sin of commission was that the educated elite abandoned key liberal precepts such as self-government, community, and shared prosperity. Postindustrial society, through automation, eroded pathways to shared prosperity and solidarity. Regulation drifted away from its intended purpose, and social engineering became more intense, departing from foundational liberal values.

Though these sins may have originated with liberalism as a political movement, they also affected democratic institutions and philosophies. Some might argue that liberalism has outlived its usefulness and that postliberal philosophies should guide society now. However, I believe liberalism is worth saving and remaking. In my book, "What Happened to Liberal Democracy?"

I present a new theory of liberalism that merges protection of individual rights with community and focuses on the pursuit of shared prosperity. This theory suggests several conclusions to reorganize society: embracing experimentation, promoting self-government, prioritizing economic growth, and incorporating soft communitarianism.

Experimentation encourages the exploration of new ideas and practices for scientific and social advancements. Nondomination ensures power and institutions are organized in a way that respects individual freedom. Economic growth is crucial for societal betterment and self-reinforcing with experimentation. Finally, soft communitarianism acknowledges the significance of community within liberal democracy while maintaining a balance between community and freedom.