Classical liberalism is credited with ushering in the Enlightenment in Europe, a period of profound transformation spanning the late 17th to early 18th century. This era reshaped European politics, science, and philosophy, prioritizing knowledge, dispersing political power, and establishing rational thought as a formal norm.
As a result, traditional hierarchical power structures rooted in divine authority became obsolete, replaced by a new order where reason and knowledge held sway. These Enlightenment ideals spread globally through trade, colonization, and conquest, profoundly influencing modern society. Even today, many of our fundamental beliefs—such as the right to life, freedom, and happiness—originate from this intellectual revolution. Before then, the lives of ordinary people were largely dictated by feudal and religious systems.
However, progress came at a cost. The path to our present was marked by suffering, sacrifice, and struggle for many. Yet, it’s undeniable that millions worldwide now enjoy far better lives than their ancestors.
Despite these advancements, Enlightenment ideals are increasingly under threat. On one hand, pre-Enlightenment fundamentalist ideologies are resurging. On the other, some reject rationalism entirely, believing that personal happiness justifies undermining reasoned discourse.
Contemporary debates often reveal deep cognitive dissonance. For example, some pro-life advocates in the U.S. also support capital punishment. Meanwhile, groups advocating for diverse gender identities may simultaneously reject the right of others to question these identities. This inconsistency highlights a broader issue—public discourse has devolved into tribalism, where people cling to simplified narratives rather than engage in complex reasoning.
In a world where everyone believes they’re an expert, nuanced issues are often reduced to soundbites. But a society cannot sustain itself if its members refuse to engage in deep, rational inquiry. Short, reactionary statements don’t just fail to resolve problems—they make them worse by entrenching division.
To break this cycle, we must prioritize understanding before taking a stance. Perhaps the best response in today’s climate is:
“I’m not sure. Let me take the time to better understand the issue, and I’ll get back to you in due time.”
And I would add: “In the meantime, don’t do or say anything rash.”