Liberalism is the Unseen Lens Through Which Culture Views Morality

Liberalism has evolved into a pervasive worldview, shaping moral perspectives and societal norms beyond its political origins. Many individuals who identify as liberals may not fully grasp the nuanced implications of contemporary liberalism, which has been recognized more sharply by its critics, especially conservatives. This irony reveals that these critics perceive liberalism as an overarching value system that has become synonymous with common sense in modern society. An illustrative example is the evolving perception of profanity; historically, certain words represented profound moral prohibitions, reflecting societal values tied to religion and bodily functions. However, today's taboo words primarily include slurs that target identity and self-respect. The shift in what is considered unacceptable language underscores how liberalism has permeated cultural discourse, dictating acceptable expressions and revealing the foundational values that govern moral judgments within the culture.