Liberalism in an identity crisis

Several live in a western world  shaped by liberalism, although in the wake of Brexit and Trump, liberalism is under threat as never before.

According to Helena Rosenblatt “ We are very muddled about what we mean  by liberalism”. Even the past historians are of little help.

Her latest book “ The Lost History of Liberalism” tells “a story that has never been told”, and “untangle our thoughts and the set the story straight.”

Historically  the word “Liberal” picked up in the enlightenment when classical references proved useful in justifying the notions of American rebels and French Revolutionaries alike. Rosenblatt give credit to the influence of the Swiss couple Benjamin Constant and Madame de Stael identified as pioneers of liberal principles in the era of French Revolution.

She challenges the traditional narrative of liberalism as an Anglo-American project, placing greater emphasis on nineteenth- century French and German thinkers who tried to conjure up “ liberal principles” of politics – the rule of law, civic equality, constitutionalism and freedom of the press and religion.

In UK  “ Brexit means Brexit”, we were assured against the divided ranks of liberal democracy.  It is the moment of truth for liberals , demanding action rather than just words, either within parliament or by propping up new question to the people.

The book challenges our most basic assumption about a political creed that has become a rallying cry.

The Lost History of Liberalism: From Ancient Rome to the Twenty-First Century by Helena Rosenblatt, Princeton $35/£27, 360 pages.