Tyranny of Opinion: Conformity and the Future of Liberalism

In an age of ideology, propaganda, and tribalism, liberal or left-minded people are often more afraid of each other than of their conservative or right-wing opponents. Russell Blackford calls for an end to ideological purity policing and for recommitment to the foundational liberal values of individual liberty and spontaneity, free inquiry, diverse opinion, and honest debate to oppose this and regain freedom and our sense of ourselves as individuals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the modern world, we are immersed in a sea of ideology, propaganda, and tribalism. Political conformity is imposed from various angles, with the insidious social control that John Stuart Mill referred to as "the tyranny of the prevailing opinion and feeling." Liberal or left-leaning individuals often harbor greater fear towards each other than their conservative or right-wing counterparts. The rise of social media and call-out culture has made it increasingly easy to identify, shame, ostracize, and harass non-conformists, often leading to the destruction of careers and lives.

How can we combat this pervasive trend and reclaim our freedom and sense of individuality? The Tyranny of Opinion offers a comprehensive analysis of the problem, defining its nature and proposing strategies for resistance. Russell Blackford calls for an end to the strict enforcement of ideological purity and a return to the fundamental liberal values of individual liberty, spontaneity, free inquiry, diverse opinion, and honest debate.

The book explores the ways in which opinion-based conformity stifles creativity, hinders critical thinking, and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. It also highlights the dangers of groupthink, where individuals are afraid to express their own opinions for fear of being ostracized or labeled as heretics. Blackford argues that the only way to break free from the tyranny of opinion is to cultivate a culture of open-mindedness, empathy, and respect for different perspectives.

He advocates for a more inclusive and diverse society that values individual expression and encourages honest dialogue. This includes promoting media literacy, education, and critical thinking skills, as well as fostering a sense of community and belonging among diverse groups.

Blackford also challenges the notion that political differences are inherently divisive and suggests that there is common ground between liberals and conservatives. He points out that both sides share a commitment to individual liberty, free speech, and the rule of law, and that it is possible to find solutions to complex problems through compromise and collaboration.

The Tyranny of Opinion is a thought-provoking and timely book that offers a roadmap for navigating the challenges of our polarized world. It encourages readers to think critically, challenge their own beliefs, and embrace diversity and inclusivity. By doing so, we can create a society that is more open, tolerant, and resilient to the forces of ideology, propaganda, and tribalism.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350056008