May 13, 2024
Updated July 19, 2025
17 minute read
Liberalism is a political and moral philosophy that emphasizes individual liberty and equality. It emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries as a reaction to the absolutism and religious intolerance of the time. Liberalism has since become one of the most influential ideologies in the world, shaping political and economic systems in many countries.
Pillars of Liberalism
Liberalism is based on several key principles:
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Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Liberalism.
Examines the challenges facing liberalism in the 21st century. Streeck argues that liberalism is in crisis because it has failed to adapt to the challenges of globalization.
Collection of essays from leading libertarian thinkers. It provides a comprehensive overview of libertarianism, from its historical roots to its contemporary applications.
Examines the history and development of liberalism from a critical perspective. Macpherson argues that liberalism has failed to live up to its ideals of freedom and equality.
Classic work on the dangers of socialism. Hayek argues that socialism inevitably leads to tyranny.
Defense of free market capitalism. Friedman argues that capitalism is the only economic system that can guarantee individual freedom and economic prosperity.
Examines the relationship between liberalism and terrorism. Ignatieff argues that liberalism is based on the idea of individual rights and that this idea is incompatible with terrorism.
History of the 20th century. Hobsbawm argues that the 20th century was a period of great upheaval and change, and that liberalism was unable to cope with the challenges of the time.
Controversial analysis of the future of international relations. Huntington argues that the world is divided into different civilizations and that these civilizations are likely to clash in the future.
Controversial analysis of the future of history. Fukuyama argues that the end of the Cold War has led to the end of history and that the world is now entering a period of democratic capitalism.
Classic work on the history of capitalism. Polanyi argues that capitalism destructive force that has led to the rise of fascism and communism. This book fits the topic of liberalism because liberals have often argued in favor of capitalism, but it is not specific to liberalism.
Classic work on the history and philosophy of conservatism. Kirk argues that conservatism is based on the idea of tradition and that this idea has been central to the development of Western civilization.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/we1c57/liberalis
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