Illiberalism on the Left and Right: How Both Sides Threaten Democracy
Illiberalism refers to the rejection of liberal principles such as individual rights, free speech, pluralism, and democracy. Both the left and right can exhibit illiberal tendencies, though they manifest in different ways.
Illiberalism of the Left
Illiberalism on the left often arises from a focus on social justice, equality, and collective identity, sometimes at the expense of traditional liberal freedoms.
- Censorship & Cancel Culture
- Some left-wing movements advocate for restricting speech deemed offensive or harmful, particularly regarding race, gender, and identity.
- There are cases where individuals face social and professional consequences for expressing views that contradict progressive ideals.
- Identity Politics & Group Rights
- The left’s emphasis on group identity (based on race, gender, or sexual orientation) can lead to policies that prioritise group rights over individual freedoms.
- Some argue this approach undermines meritocracy and universal rights.
- State Control & Regulation
- Some left-wing ideologies support heavy government intervention in the economy and social life, which can reduce economic freedom and personal autonomy.
- Policies like speech codes in universities or corporate diversity mandates can be seen as limiting individual choice.
- Moral Absolutism & Intolerance of Dissent
- Some progressive movements treat their worldview as morally absolute, making dissenting opinions seem unacceptable or even punishable.
- This can lead to ideological conformity in institutions such as academia, media, and culture.
Illiberalism of the Right
Illiberalism on the right typically stems from a focus on tradition, nationalism, and authority, often at the expense of democratic norms and personal liberties.
- Nationalism & Nativism
- Right-wing illiberalism often includes hostility toward immigration and multiculturalism, favouring national identity over diversity.
- Some governments promote exclusionary policies to preserve cultural homogeneity.
- Attacks on Democratic Institutions
- Some right-wing leaders attempt to undermine democratic checks and balances, such as weakening the judiciary, suppressing the media, or limiting opposition parties.
- Examples include election interference, gerrymandering, and attacks on independent institutions.
- Restrictions on Civil Liberties
- Right-wing illiberalism often targets personal freedoms related to reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and freedom of speech (especially in media and academia).
- Some governments use laws to suppress political opponents or control public discourse.
- Authoritarianism & Strongman Politics
- Many right-wing illiberal movements favour strong, centralised leadership, sometimes prioritising security and stability over democratic freedoms.
- Leaders may appeal to tradition and law-and-order rhetoric to justify suppressing opposition.
Key Differences & Similarities
| Feature | Illiberal Left | Illiberal Right |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Social justice, equality, identity politics | Nationalism, tradition, cultural homogeneity |
| Threats to Speech | Censorship of offensive views, cancel culture | Media suppression, state control over speech |
| Economic Approach | Government intervention, wealth redistribution | State capitalism or corporatism, favouring elites |
| Democratic Risks | Intolerance of dissent, ideological conformity | Undermining democratic norms, authoritarianism |
| View on Individual Rights | Prioritises group rights over individual freedom | Prioritises tradition and authority over individual freedom |
Both forms of illiberalism can threaten democratic societies by limiting open debate, suppressing dissent, and prioritising ideological purity over pluralism. The key difference is that left-wing illiberalism often arises from a belief in social justice and equity, while right-wing illiberalism tends to stem from a desire for order, tradition, and nationalism.
