The Myth of Classical Liberalism: How Political Identity Evolves (Palgrave Studies in Classical Liberalism)

This short, engaging book challenges the widely held belief that ‘classical liberalism’ is the original and authentic form of liberalism. The book argues that this narrative – often used to position libertarianism as the true liberal tradition and social democratic liberalism as a distortion – is built on historical misunderstandings of the terms ‘liberal’ and ‘liberalism’. Focusing on English and American contexts, the book uses primary sources to show that the free-market doctrines of Adam Smith, later interpreted by thinkers like Hayek and Friedman as libertarian principles, should not be conflated with liberalism. Instead, liberalism first emerged in nineteenth-century England as a political philosophy rooted in constitutionalism and republicanism. The book also examines how Franklin D. Roosevelt reshaped American political language by associating “liberals” with New Deal supporters and “conservatives” with its opponents. By exploring these two pivotal moments and the broader political and economic history that connects them, de Marneffe redefines classical liberalism and critiques rigid interpretations of liberal thought. This book will appeal to scholars of politics, philosophy, economics, and the history of ideas.
ASIN: 3032143187
VSKU: GBV.3032143187.G
Condition: Good
Author/Artist:de Marneffe, Peter
Binding: Hardcover
Note: Any images shown are stock photographs and product may differ from what is shown.
Condition Notes: Has a sturdy binding with some shelf wear. May have some markings or highlighting. Used copies may not include access codes or Cd's. Slight bending may be present.