Overzealous Liberalism - A Rational Perspective

The Dangers of Overzealous Liberalism: A Rational Perspective

Liberalism, while beneficial in many ways, can also pose significant risks if not approached cautiously. To understand this, let's first consider conservatism. Conservatism essentially values the tried-and-tested methods, the paths we've walked before, and the systems that have proven their worth over time. It's about sticking with what has worked—free market economies, established social structures—because these have survived and thrived while other models have failed.

The structures we have today are here because they've prevailed over less effective ones. They succeeded where others did not. So, when we talk about deviating from these established norms, we need to tread carefully. Any deviation should be scrutinised: will it benefit us, or will it derail us?

Now, let's talk about liberalism. Liberalism advocates for change and innovation. It challenges the status quo and pushes for new ideas, which can lead to significant positive developments. However, this means venturing into uncharted territory—trying things that haven't worked before and hoping they'll succeed this time around.

The wisest approach to change is gradual. Alter one or two parameters at a time, rather than overhauling the entire system all at once. Think of it like tweaking a recipe: you don't throw out the entire recipe and start over. Instead, you make small adjustments—add a bit more garlic, reduce the salt a tad—and then assess the outcome before making further changes. This methodical approach to innovation is how we should handle societal, cultural, and economic changes.

The issue with progressive ideologies is their push for rapid, sweeping changes. They aim to dismantle traditional family structures, redefine gender roles, and even experiment with economic systems that history has shown to be ineffective. While these ambitions come from a place of wanting to improve society, they often overlook why our current systems exist in the first place—they have survived through a process of social evolution, proving more robust than their alternatives.

Therefore, any new change must be mindful, well-thought-out, and introduced incrementally. You can't overhaul everything overnight without causing significant instability. Change must be approached with caution. We shouldn't fear change, but it should be sustainable and testable, ensuring we understand its impact on the system.

This is why I lean towards the centre-right of the political spectrum. It values the achievements of our current systems while remaining open to incremental changes. As society evolves, so should our systems—but organically, not through imposed changes. Change should be led by societal shifts, not forced by governmental mandates. This approach ensures stability and fosters innovation in a controlled, measured way.

In conclusion, innovation and change are essential, but they must be implemented thoughtfully and tactfully. Change is good, but only when it is organic and sustainable. This balance is crucial for maintaining stability while fostering progress.