Democracy Paradox

Michael Walzer on Liberal as an Adjective

Jan 17, 2023

26:50

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Is It Possible to Be a Liberal Democrat but Be an Illiberal Socialist?

02:30

The Meaning of Liberalism Has Changed Over Time?

01:46

What Did You Learn From Yulia Tamir?

04:37

Introduction

4min

The Struggle for a Decent Politics on Liberal as an Adjective

3min

Is Liberalism a Mindset?

2min

Is It Possible to Be a Liberal Democrat but Be an Illiberal Socialist?

3min

Is There Any Specific Policies or Laws That Are Really Essential to a Liberal Form of Politics?

2min

Is Democracy the Key to a Liberal Politics?

2min

Leninist Movements

2min

Is It Possible to Be a Conservative Liberal or a Liberal Conservative?

2min

What Did You Learn From Yulia Tamir?

5min

10.

The Meaning of Liberalism Has Changed Over Time?

2min

11.

The Struggle for a Decent Politics on Liberal as an Adjective

2min

It doesn't have a fixed character. It's a mindset that has to do with a respect for human rights and civil liberties, toleration of different religions, and an ability to live with ambiguity. So, I like the idea of liberal as a qualifier on other and more specific and coherent commitments.

Michael Walzer

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A full transcript is available at www.democracyparadox.com.

Michael Walzer is an emeritus professor at the Institute for Advanced Study. He was also a longtime editor of Dissent. He is the author of many books including the classic of political philosophy Spheres of Justice. His most recent book is called The Struggle for a Decent Politics: On “Liberal” as an Adjective.

Key Highlights

Introduction - 0:45
What is Liberalism? 3:53
Liberal Democracy - 11:47
Liberal Nationalism - 17:35
How Does Liberalism Change? 22:14

Key Links

The Struggle for a Decent Politics: On "Liberal" as an Adjective by Michael Walzer

Spheres Of Justice: A Defense Of Pluralism And Equality by Michael Walzer

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