Political Philosophy Podcast

Should Liberalism Fight, or Retreat & Retrench? with Alec Crisman

Aug 29, 2025
Alec Crisman, a writer exploring the tension between political and comprehensive liberalism, engages in a lively debate about the future of liberalism in today's fraught political climate. The discussion tackles whether liberals should adopt a more aggressive stance against rising authoritarianism or retreat to neutrality. Crisman expresses concerns about the implications of comprehensive liberalism on autonomy and societal values. They also delve into the complexities of ideological recruitment and the need for effective counter-narratives amidst contemporary political challenges.
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INSIGHT

Liberalism Must Be A Player, Not Referee

  • Toby Buckle argues liberalism must stop pretending to be a neutral referee and instead take an active side to resist fascism.
  • He endorses a comprehensive liberalism grounded in a substantive conception of the good (autonomy) to fight illiberal movements.
INSIGHT

Political Versus Comprehensive Liberalism

  • Alec Crisman summarizes political vs comprehensive liberalism: political liberalism manages pluralism while comprehensive liberalism offers a substantive good (autonomy).
  • He notes comprehensive liberalism emotionally resonates more but can demand a narrow vision of flourishing.
ANECDOTE

Mill's Victorian Blind Spots

  • Toby recounts John Stuart Mill's Victorian context and controversial views like eugenic-leaning statements and support for the East India Company.
  • He uses these historical details to caution against uncritical Millian revival while still valuing Mill's autonomy-focused insights.
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