Write approximately 150 words on "Decline of Liberalism (10m)". (UPSC CSE Mains 2024- Political Science and International Relations, Paper 1)
Liberalism has been the dominant ideology of the 20th century leading to Francis Fukuyama to claim “end of history”. However, in the 21st century it has witnessed a decline. The decline of liberalism in recent years is often attributed to the
- rise of populism
- authoritarianism
- economic inequality.
1) Critique on Liberalism from the Left
- Liberalism is seen as an elitist ideology that favors the interests of a small, privileged group over the needs of the majority. They argue that liberalism’s emphasis on individualism has increased economic inequality and the divide between the rich and poor in society.
- Liberals are criticized for furthering corporate interests and marginalization of the disadvantaged. (Macpherson)
2) Critique on Liberalism from the Right
- The right sees liberalism’s focus on individual freedom as a threat to values that are centered around community, identity, and tradition.
- Liberalism in India is a Western colonial import with no connection to traditional values and way of living.
Liberalism, which emphasizes individual freedoms, democracy, and the rule of law, has faced increasing challenges due to economic globalization and cultural discontent. Political theorist Francis Fukuyama, once optimistic about liberal democracy, now warns of “democratic backsliding” as populist leaders reject liberal norms in favor of majoritarian rule.
Economically, liberalism’s emphasis on free markets has been critiqued for exacerbating inequality. Joseph Stiglitz argues that “market fundamentalism” has led to a concentration of wealth, undermining the social contract and fueling discontent. Similarly, John Gray highlights that liberalism’s universalism struggles to address the particularistic demands of diverse societies, making it vulnerable to identity-based politics.
Global crises like COVID-19 and economic failures have further weakened faith in liberal institutions. Political theorist Francis Fukuyama noted that the pandemic revealed the fragility of liberal democracies in effectively managing large-scale crises, further contributing to the decline of liberalism.
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