Radio Rothbard A History of Political Theory in the West
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May 15, 2025 In this engaging conversation, educator Joseph Solis-Mullen, an expert in political science and economics, discusses Ralph Raico's compelling lectures on Western political thought. He highlights the historical dynamics of class conflict and critiques the bureaucratic influences seen in thinkers like John Stuart Mill. The duo explores the evolution of liberalism, contrasting it with other ideologies and emphasizing the importance of context. They recommend essential readings for those interested in libertarian thought, spotlighting the need for clarity in modern political discourse.
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Classical Liberalism Defined
- Ralph Raico defines classical liberalism as belief society can run itself without state interference.
- Libertarianism is a radical form of classical liberalism, often confused due to term theft by leftists.
Split of Liberalism in 1830s
- Liberalism split in the 1830s into classical liberalism and progressive liberalism.
- Classical liberals advocate no state interference, while progressives co-opted the term liberalism.
John Stuart Mill's Freedom Shift
- John Stuart Mill redefined freedom as total absence of social pressure.
- Traditional liberals saw freedom as freedom from state coercion only.