Intelligence Squared Liberalism in Dark Times
Jan 11, 2022
Joshua L. Cherniss, an Associate Professor at Georgetown University and author of "Liberalism in Dark Times," joins host Georgina Godwin to explore the challenges facing moderate liberalism today. They discuss how liberal values are attacked from both extremes of the political spectrum and advocate for tempered liberalism, emphasizing resilience and ethical integrity. Cherniss also delves into the impact of digital discourse on public opinion and the importance of fostering forgiveness and collaboration among differing views.
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Defining Liberalism
- Liberalism prioritizes individual freedom, enabling personal choices in life, actions, and beliefs.
- It emphasizes limiting power to prevent its abuse and protect this freedom.
The Ruthless Challenge to Liberalism
- Ruthlessness in politics rejects limits on actions, prioritizing a single goal above all else.
- This poses a dilemma for liberals, as opposing ruthlessness within liberal principles proves challenging.
Responding to Ruthlessness
- Combine pragmatic action and flexible messaging with ethical constancy.
- Articulate a counter-ethic that champions liberal virtues like tolerance and respect for others' freedom.
