Misconceptions of Liberalism

Contemporary discussions of liberalism often stem from a post-1945 perspective, which tends to define liberalism primarily in relation to its opposition to both far-right and far-left ideologies. This results in a narrow understanding that positions liberalism as a centrist ideology against extremes like communism and fascism. However, true liberal thought, as established by early philosophers such as John Locke, was not formulated in response to these later ideologies, but rather as a challenge to arbitrary hierarchies and monarchical authority. Recognizing this historical context is crucial to understanding the foundational principles of liberalism, which advocate for the leveling of hierarchies, rather than a mere middle ground in modern political discourse.