Source: EconLog
by Jon Murphy
“Recently here at EconLog Scott Sumner and Janet Bufton have had an interesting discussion on liberalism as an antidote against authoritarianism (see Sumner here, Bufton’s comments here, and Sumner’s continuation here). The central theme has been how liberalism, properly understood and consistently applied, helps inoculate one against a descent into authoritarianism, even if one likes what the authoritarian is doing. They’re great posts and you should read them (even if you have already). But I think there is a gap in the conversation that I wish to fill: what unique aspect of liberalism makes it an effective vaccine? The liberal understanding of justice makes it an effective vaccine.” (02/14/25)