Liberal Solidarity: The Political Economy of Social Democratic Liberalism

The twenty-first century has seen challenges to freedom and democracy, with authoritarianism on the rise and democracy in retreat. This book argues for a pragmatic, social democratic liberalism that avoids unrealistic extremes and tackles major problems such as inequality and climate change. It is a powerful statement of social democratic liberalism and will be of interest to anyone concerned about modern politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 06 August 2021
Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd

The twenty-first century has witnessed significant challenges to freedom and democracy. Authoritarianism is on the rise, while democracy is in retreat. Some advocate for individualism and markets as the solution to almost every problem, while others champion collectivism and full public ownership. Neither side is convincing. Unrestrained capitalism has exacerbated inequality. Socialism in practice has ended democracy. Effective defenders of liberty and human flourishing must find a different course.

This book argues for a pragmatic, social democratic liberalism that avoids unrealistic extremes and tackles major problems such as inequality and climate change. It is a timely and thought-provoking contribution to the ongoing debate about the future of liberalism.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of social democratic liberalism and its commitment to social justice and equality. It then explores the challenges facing modern societies, including economic inequality, climate change, and the rise of authoritarianism. The book argues that social democratic liberalism is the best way to address these problems and promote human flourishing.

One of the key arguments of the book is that individualism and markets are not sufficient to address the complex challenges of modern society. Instead, the book advocates for a more collectivist approach that emphasizes the importance of public ownership and collective action. This includes policies such as universal healthcare, education, and social welfare programs that aim to reduce inequality and ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.

The book also criticizes the extremes of both individualism and collectivism. It argues that unrestrained capitalism has led to a concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, while socialism in practice has stifled creativity and innovation. Instead, the book proposes a balanced approach that combines elements of both individualism and collectivism to promote human flourishing.

The book also emphasizes the importance of democracy and human rights in promoting social democratic liberalism. It argues that democracy is not just a political system, but a way of life that values freedom, equality, and human dignity. The book advocates for policies that promote democratic participation, such as voting rights, free speech, and the right to assembly.

In conclusion, this book is a powerful and timely statement of social democratic liberalism. It offers a vision for a better future that combines social justice, equality, and human flourishing with a commitment to democracy and human rights. It is a must-read for anyone concerned about modern politics and the future of liberalism.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800882188