Philosophize This! Episode #132 ... Carl Schmitt on Liberalism pt. 1
38 snips
Jul 1, 2019 Dive into the provocative world of early 20th-century political philosophy through the lens of Carl Schmitt. Explore his sharp critiques of liberalism, framed by a backdrop of revolutions and wars. Unpack the notion that liberalism, once hailed as a pathway to equality, may fall short in bridging deep political divides. This critical examination sheds light on the challenges and dilemmas faced by philosophers of the time, making it all the more relevant to today's political landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Schmitt's Target: Liberalism
- Carl Schmitt critiques liberalism as a broad political philosophy, not its modern U.S. political connotation.
- He targets the Enlightenment-era concept of liberalism, distinct from current partisan divides.
Liberalism vs. Pre-liberalism
- Liberalism, arising from the Enlightenment, contrasts with pre-liberal thought by emphasizing reason over revelation.
- It champions secular scholarship, rational debate, and individual rights.
Liberalism's Unfulfilled Promise
- Schmitt argues liberalism promises a better world, contrasting with the pre-liberal world's issues.
- He contends that liberalism fails to deliver on this promise.