You probably wrote this before reading the Atlantic's incredible article on Trump's (and Miller's) "no tolerance" family separation policy, but it's a perfect complement to the article. I can't wait to read Shklar's essay.
An excellent article. Can i also recommend to you the work of another Eastern European exile Leszek Kolakowski? Here is a wonderful quote about him and Judith Shklar by the Late Tony Judt
"What [this historical experience] produced was what Judith Shklar, in another context, once described as a ”liberalism of fear”: the uncompromising defense of reason and moderation born of firsthand experience of the consequences of ideological excess; the ever-present awareness of the possibility of catastrophe, at its worst when misunderstood as opportunity or renewal, of the temptations of totalizing thought in all its protean variety. In the wake of twentieth-century history, this was the Central European lesson. If we are very fortunate, we shall not have to relearn it again for some time to come; when we do, we had better hope that there will be someone around to teach it. Until then, we would do well to reread Kołakowski."
Excellent article. Much to think about. Thank you!
You probably wrote this before reading the Atlantic's incredible article on Trump's (and Miller's) "no tolerance" family separation policy, but it's a perfect complement to the article. I can't wait to read Shklar's essay.
I just saw that piece. I wish I had read it before writing mine...but it'll offer fodder for future ruminations. Thanks
Great essay!
Basically, there is no liberalism without empathy for the individual
An excellent article. Can i also recommend to you the work of another Eastern European exile Leszek Kolakowski? Here is a wonderful quote about him and Judith Shklar by the Late Tony Judt
"What [this historical experience] produced was what Judith Shklar, in another context, once described as a ”liberalism of fear”: the uncompromising defense of reason and moderation born of firsthand experience of the consequences of ideological excess; the ever-present awareness of the possibility of catastrophe, at its worst when misunderstood as opportunity or renewal, of the temptations of totalizing thought in all its protean variety. In the wake of twentieth-century history, this was the Central European lesson. If we are very fortunate, we shall not have to relearn it again for some time to come; when we do, we had better hope that there will be someone around to teach it. Until then, we would do well to reread Kołakowski."
Cruelty as a tool of governance is on the rise on the left as well as the right:
https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/parents-lose-custody-of-transgender-teen/
https://nypost.com/2022/02/26/dad-lost-custody-after-questioning-sons-transgender-identity/
https://www.californiafamily.org/2022/07/new-bill-lets-courts-take-custody-of-minors-who-flee-to-ca-for-trans-treatments/