Liberal politics is a concept that can be difficult to define, as it can be seen in various forms within different political systems. In his new book, “The Struggle for a Decent Politics,” the political philosopher Michael Walzer grapples with a definition. He breaks it down into two components: an emphasis on freedom and an emphasis on equality. Walzer explains that liberalism is a political ideology that puts a priority on individual liberty and the promotion of equal rights and opportunities for all.
The middle ground of American politics is growing more difficult to find as the nation's two major political parties organize around their respective liberal and conservative ideologies. Liberals tend to focus on progressive ideals, such as economic and social justice, while conservatives focus on traditional values and limited government. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is defending Liberal MP Han Dong's efforts to protect the rights of minorities, saying it is important to "pull it out of the realm of partisan politics and hand it over to people who can make it better."
It is for a reason that we have checks and balances in our political system: so no person's views can dominate the rest. Liberalism has become increasingly influential in international politics, as the effects of globalization have led to a greater emphasis on international cooperation and the need to manage the effects of climate change. This has led to a focus on liberal and rules-based world order, which is focused on protecting human rights and promoting international cooperation.