The Gray Area with Sean Illing How social democrats won Europe — then lost it
Apr 18, 2019
Sheri Berman, a political scientist at Barnard College and an expert on European social democracy, dives into the rise and fall of social democracy in Europe. She contrasts it with populist movements, emphasizing the left's fragmentation. Berman explores the historical shifts that led to the decline of social democratic parties, the challenges of maintaining voter support amidst rising populism, and the intricate relationship between welfare states and political identity. Her insights shed light on how understanding Europe's political landscape can inform current American dynamics.
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Social Democracy vs. Liberalism
- Social democrats accept capitalism but want a strong state to regulate markets and protect citizens.
- They differ from liberals in their more critical view of capitalism and greater willingness to use state intervention.
Social Democrat Decline
- Post-WWII, European political competition centered on economic issues, favoring social democrats.
- Their dominance waned as economic issues became less central and social/cultural issues gained prominence.
Leftward Shift
- Two factors contributed to the shift of left parties towards the center: economic stagnation in the 70s/80s and the collapse of communism.
- The latter led to a sense of triumphalism about capitalism, reducing the perceived need for state intervention.
