As the world approaches the New Year, a contemplative mood prevails, shaped by high levels of uncertainty about the course the year may take. However, one trend appears increasingly evident: a gradual shift in many nations, particularly in the West, from left-liberal ideologies toward a more conservative political outlook. From the United States and France to Germany, Italy, and even Eastern European countries, there is a noticeable rise in support for conservative politics. Similarly, India, the world's largest democracy, continues to favour right-leaning lawmakers, marking a departure from the predominantly left-liberal choices its electorate made for nearly seven decades since independence.
While there are exceptions like the Keir Starmer-led government in the UK which came to power after over a decade of Conservative rule marked by scandals and unpopular leaders; regime changes are inherently cyclical, particularly in democracies where periodic elections and the removal of governments due to incumbency fatigue are common. Interpreting such changes as evidence of a significant ideological shift among electorates is an overreach. The idea that voters choosing change signals a wholesale rejection of liberalism is far-fetched.
However if there is a noticeable trend of citizens in several countries favouring conservative leadership, can it be concluded that liberalism is losing ideological ground to conservatism on a global scale? In broader terms, the answer might lean toward yes.
The 17th-century philosopher John Locke is often regarded as the first major proponent of liberalism, as understood in the Western tradition. His ideas significantly influenced figures such as Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and several Scottish leaders, including those involved in the ill-fated Battle of Culloden. Despite the Scots' defeat, liberal ideals persisted and profoundly shaped events like the American War of Independence and the French Revolution, both of which can be seen as direct outcomes of Locke's philosophy.
However, while the United States was founded on liberal principles, its embrace of slavery persisted for nearly a century, highlighting a stark contradiction. In Europe, liberal ideas spread widely, yet they coexisted with the rise of colonialisman enterprise fundamentally at odds with the core tenets of liberalism. Over time, the dominance of liberal thought in the 18th and 19th centuries arguably gave way to conservatism, which, in turn, fostered imperialistic tendencies. This ideological shift contributed to the conditions leading to the two World Wars, as European nations and Japandeeply rooted in conservative and nationalist ideologiespursued expansionist agendas.
In the aftermath of these global conflicts, the world saw the resurgence of liberalism in the form of globalization, which gained significant momentum after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the rapid advancement of information technology. This period marked a new phase of liberal thought, characterized by unprecedented economic and cultural integration.
As noted earlier in this article, liberalism is increasingly being overshadowed by the conservative inclinations of electorates, particularly in democratic nations. However, history suggests that such ideological shifts are cyclical. It is likely that within the next couple of decades, liberalism will regain its appeal as societies revisit its ideals. This ebb and flow of prominence between liberal and conservative ideologies appears to be a recurring pattern throughout history.
If we extend this reasoning to earlier periods, can we trace the rise of liberal ideas even before John Lockes time? Consider the Renaissance in Europe, which began roughly 300 years before Locke. Wasnt the Renaissance itself a celebration of liberal thought, emphasizing humanism, individual freedom, and the pursuit of knowledge? Or take the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, a landmark event occurring more than a century before the Renaissance. Wasnt this a product of liberal ideals, advocating limits on absolute power and greater rights for individuals?
Indeed, liberalism has consistently emerged throughout human history. Great sages and prophets such as Moses, Jesus, and Buddha could all be seen as profound liberal thinkers whose teachings challenged prevailing norms and inspired millions worldwide. Liberal principles are also evident in ancient Hindu scriptures and Confucian philosophy in China, underscoring their universal relevance across cultures.
However, liberalism thrives only when societies are prepared to embrace it. For much of history, humanity has been constrained by conservative ideologies that dominate during periods of fear, instability, or uncertainty. The current backlash against liberalism, particularly in response to issues like immigration in the USA, Canada, and Europe, reflects such a period. Yet, as these challenges are addressed and resolved, it is possible that liberal ideals will once again find favour with the people.
For now we can enjoy a ringside view of global ideological shifts defining our times.
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