Russell Blackford

Russell Blackford, a philosopher and legal scholar from Australia, discusses his book on the decline of liberalism and toleration. He examines how liberal values are often misused or dismissed in today’s political landscape. Blackford traces liberalism’s historical roots, including its ties to Christianity, and analyzes contemporary challenges like the balance between free speech and respect for religious beliefs. He highlights key events, such as the Charlie Hebdo attack, to illustrate the urgent need for open discourse amidst rising authoritarianism and polarization.

Russell Blackford, a philosopher and legal scholar from the University of Newcastle, delves into the complexities of liberalism in his latest work. He explores the historical evolution of toleration and its challenges, particularly how liberal principles are often undermined in today’s society. The discussion covers the impact of rising right-wing populism, campus debates on academic freedom, and tensions between individual liberty and critiques of religion. Blackford argues for the preservation of liberal ideals while addressing the pressing need for post-liberal alternatives.