Introduction

The term 'liberalism' has long been associated with progressive ideals and democratic principles. However, in recent years, this once revered term has been hijacked by a strain of 'progressivism' that has become increasingly illiberal in its actions and rhetoric. This article will explore the reasons why modern progressivism can be considered an illiberal agenda, posing a significant threat to democratic societies.

The Shifting Landscape of Liberalism

Once, the concept of liberalism was marked by pluralism, freedom of expression, and social welfare programs aimed at improving the lives of all citizens. However, in recent times, the term 'liberalism' has been misappropriated and stretched to mean anything from a support for LGBTQ rights to a promotion of intersectional feminism.

The issue here is not that these goals are inherently bad, but rather that they have been weaponized and politicized to the point where they serve to undermine fundamental democratic values. This shift has been particularly evident among younger generations, often referred to as 'progressives,' who self-identify as liberal but in practice, adhere to an agenda that is often authoritarian and illiberal.

Challenges to Democratic Institutions

The primary concern with modern progressivism is its propensity to challenge democratic norms. This is evident in its approach to social issues such as systemic racism and inclusivity.

Systemic Racism: The demonization of law and order under the guise of 'systemic racism' has resulted in the erosion of trust in law enforcement, a cornerstone of any democratic society. By framing all acts of crime as racially motivated, modern progressives overlook the nuanced realities of criminal justice, thereby weakening the social contract that binds citizens to one another.

Inclusivity: Similarly, the push for 'inclusivity' in sports and society at large has led to the dismantling of female sports programs. The argument that single-sex spaces and competitive structures are inherently discriminatory has led to the forced integration of boys into girls' sports, which in turn undermines the integrity and fairness of these competitions.

The Illiberal Tactics and Rhetoric

Modern progressivism often employs aggressive and illiberal tactics to further its agenda. This includes:

Social Media Harassment: Proponents of modern progressivism frequently use social media to harass and intimidate individuals who hold opposing views, smearing them as racists, bigots, or other derogatory terms. This abuse of social platforms stifles open discourse and free debate, essential components of a healthy democracy. Propaganda and Indoctrination: There is a concerted effort to indoctrinate young minds through educational bureaucracies and cultural institutions. This approach is akin to a cult-like mentality, where dissent is punished, and conformity to the progressive narrative is enforced. Issuing Blanket Statements: Rather than engaging in constructive dialogue, modern progressivism often resorts to issuing blanket statements and dismissing opposing views as harmful and oppressive. This one-sided approach not only fails to address the complexities of social issues but also creates a culture of fear and self-censorship.

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of the contemporary political landscape, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine liberalism and the illiberal agenda of modern progressivism. While the liberal ideals of equality, justice, and freedom are more important than ever, the methods employed by some 'progressives' often undermine these very values.

Fostering a truly inclusive society requires the preservation of democratic institutions and the protection of civil liberties. It is imperative that we engage in open, respectful dialogue and strive for a balanced approach that upholds the principles of democracy while addressing the legitimate concerns of all citizens.