Audio Mises Wire Why Classical-Liberal Constitutionalism Has Failed
Jul 30, 2025
Explore the historical failures of classical-liberal constitutionalism, where attempts to limit government inadvertently strengthened it. Dive into the transformation of state power from a freedom promoter to a threat to liberty, with insights from thinkers like Benjamin Constant. Delve into the shortcomings of constitutional safeguards and recognize the risks of an overreaching Supreme Court. Finally, consider a radical shift towards decentralization and local governance as a solution to empower individuals and enhance self-governance.
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Centralization Undermines Limits
- Centralized liberal states replaced decentralized power structures, increasing state power unexpectedly.
- Classical liberals thought constitutions would limit state power, but those very frameworks enabled state consolidation.
Liberal Success Bred Stronger States
- Classical liberals gained short-term wins but created more powerful centralized states.
- These strengthened institutions imposed heavy burdens in the 20th century and beyond.
State as Natural Enemy of Liberty
- After old elites vanished, individuals and the state faced off directly, revealing government as the chief threat.
- Benjamin Constant articulated classical liberalism's lasting skepticism and hostility toward state power.
