Civic Liberalism, or Civicism, will strive to empower communities through enacting principles of democratic socialism and mutualism, whereby economic democracy is emphasised (cooperative enterprises strengthened and grown), and localism cherished to reduce regional inequality by establishing local economic autonomy (tax-raising abilities with a land value tax introduced to use land wisely and productively, on par with Geoism) with the enshrined right of communities to directly dictate changes in their local area via alternating representative assemblies and participatory exchange. The belief in (trans)humanism will be echoed in the positive outlook towards innovation and research-and-development with an acknowledgment of environmentalism and sustainability being essential for civilisation. A strong ethos solidarity (against negativity, hate, or blaming) built upon the foundations of a new, dynamic patriotism to foster integration and cohesion in a growingly polarised society (based on cultural differences) is essential. To confront nationalistic conflicts-of-interest, federalism will stop the disintegration of the union by accelerating the development of regions outside of the capital and the south-east by allowing regional democracy to postulate laser-focused policies.
To repurpose the left as the side that believes in economic redistribution and equal opportunity, rather than divisive post-modern politics based on identity. Where it is neither the state nor capital that has an upper hand, but communities through enhanced and elevated democracy. Aims to be radical and visionary for purely a social purpose but in accordance with pragmatism and moderacy, aligned to scientific reasoning rather than an ideological and emotional basis with the full embrace of the right to free-think and in advocacy of open-mindedness and consensus-finding.
Civic Liberalism represents a new paradigm for political thought, one that builds upon the foundations of classical liberalism while addressing the pressing challenges of contemporary society. Rooted in values such as individual freedom, economic democracy, localism, and solidarity, Civic Lberalism seeks to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. It combines key elements of liberalism, democratic socialism, and mutualism with a strong focus on empowering communities and fostering social cohesion in an increasingly polarized society.
1. The Roots of Civic Liberalism
To understand Civic Liberalism, it is essential to first explore its relationship to classical liberalism and its divergence from other political ideologies. Classical liberalism, which emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, focused on the protection of individual rights, limited government intervention, and the promotion of free markets. Pioneers of liberal thought, such as John Locke, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill, emphasized the importance of individual liberty, private property, and the rule of law.
However, as liberalism evolved over the centuries, it encountered numerous challenges, particularly in the face of growing social inequality, industrial capitalism, and environmental degradation. The promise of economic prosperity in capitalist societies has often been marred by rising inequality, environmental destruction, and the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few.
Civic Liberalism emerges as a reimagining of classical liberalism, recognizing the need for both individual freedoms and collective responsibility. It seeks to address the failures of traditional liberalism by advocating for a more participatory, democratic, and community-driven political and economic system.
1.1 The Crisis of Liberalism
The rise of global capitalism, neoliberal economic policies, and the increasing concentration of wealth have led to widespread dissatisfaction with the liberal order. Economic inequality has reached unprecedented levels, while political systems have become increasingly disconnected from the needs of ordinary citizens. Civic Liberalism, in contrast, seeks to revive the democratic ideals of liberalism by advocating for local empowerment, economic democracy, and a stronger role for communities in shaping their own futures.
The global financial crisis of 2008, the rise of populist movements, and the deepening environmental crisis have highlighted the need for a new political framework. Civic Liberalism offers a path forward, combining the strengths of liberalism with the necessary reforms to address the challenges of the modern world.
2. Core Principles of Civic Liberalism
At its core, Civic Liberalism is built on the following principles:
- Economic Democracy: Civic Liberalism advocates for a more equitable distribution of economic power through cooperative enterprises, mutualism, and decentralized economic systems. It challenges the dominance of corporations and centralized power, emphasizing the need for communities to have a say in economic decision-making.
- Localism and Community Empowerment: Civic Liberalism values local autonomy and democratic participation. It supports the decentralization of power, ensuring that communities have the right to dictate policies and decisions that affect their lives. This includes giving communities the ability to raise taxes, control local resources, and shape their economic future.
- Solidarity and Social Cohesion: Civic Liberalism emphasizes the importance of solidarity among individuals and communities. It advocates for a new form of patriotism that fosters social integration and collective responsibility, transcending the divisions of nationalism, identity politics, and economic inequality.
- Sustainability and Technological Innovation: Civic Liberalism acknowledges the importance of technological progress and innovation but advocates for their responsible use in promoting sustainability, environmental protection, and human flourishing. It supports research and development in areas such as renewable energy, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence, with a focus on ensuring that these technologies benefit all members of society.
- Democratic Governance: Civic Liberalism emphasizes the importance of direct democracy, participatory governance, and the empowerment of citizens to shape political and policy decisions. It supports decentralized federalism and the creation of local assemblies where citizens can engage in meaningful decision-making processes.
2.1 Economic Democracy
One of the most important aspects of Civic Liberalism is its focus on economic democracy. While classical liberalism championed free markets and minimal government intervention, Civic Liberalism recognizes that economic power must be distributed more equitably to ensure fairness and social justice.
Economic democracy can take many forms, but it is most clearly seen in the promotion of cooperative businesses and mutualist networks. In a cooperative enterprise, workers are not only employees but also owners of the business, which allows them to make decisions collectively, share profits, and invest in the well-being of the community. This model contrasts sharply with the traditional capitalist model, where decision-making power and profits are concentrated in the hands of a few shareholders or corporate executives.
Mutualism, a concept rooted in the works of early anarchists like Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, advocates for voluntary cooperation among individuals and communities to meet their needs without relying on the state or capitalist markets. Mutualist systems can include cooperatives, worker-owned businesses, and community-managed resources, where the emphasis is on collaboration and collective benefit.
In addition to supporting cooperative enterprises, Civic Liberalism advocates for the implementation of policies that ensure fair wages, equitable wealth distribution, and the protection of workers’ rights. This includes progressive taxation, the creation of social safety nets, and the expansion of universal healthcare and education.
2.2 Localism and Community Empowerment
Civic Liberalism’s commitment to localism is driven by the belief that communities are best equipped to determine their own futures. Centralized systems of government and economy have often failed to meet the needs of local populations, leading to disillusionment and inequality. By empowering communities to make decisions on local matters, Civic Liberalism aims to restore the democratic promise of government by the people.
Localism does not mean isolationism; rather, it calls for the decentralization of power and the strengthening of local economies, institutions, and decision-making processes. This includes granting local governments the authority to raise taxes, control resources, and implement policies that reflect the needs of their residents. Civic Liberalism also advocates for policies like land value taxation, which encourages the efficient and equitable use of land and resources.
2.3 Solidarity and Social Cohesion
Civic Liberalism promotes a new form of solidarity based on shared values of justice, equity, and mutual respect. In contrast to the divisive identity politics and nationalism that have often fractured societies, Civic Liberalism encourages people to unite around common causes and shared goals.
Solidarity is the foundation of Civic Liberalism’s vision for social cohesion. It is built on the understanding that individuals and communities are interconnected and that the well-being of one is tied to the well-being of all. This sense of collective responsibility is necessary for overcoming the fragmentation and polarization that have come to define modern society.
By fostering social cohesion through solidarity, Civic Liberalism seeks to create a society in which people from different backgrounds, cultures, and identities can work together for the common good. It also promotes the idea of a new patriotism, one that is inclusive and forward-looking, based on a shared commitment to democratic values, justice, and equality.
3. Addressing Contemporary Challenges through Civic Liberalism
Civic Liberalism offers solutions to many of the challenges that define contemporary society. From economic inequality and political disenchantment to environmental degradation and social polarization, Civic Liberalism provides a framework for addressing these issues in a way that prioritizes democracy, sustainability, and community well-being.
3.1 Economic Inequality and Political Disillusionment
One of the most pressing issues of our time is the growing economic inequality that has led to widespread disillusionment with the political system. Civic Liberalism addresses this problem by advocating for economic democracy, where communities have more control over their resources and economic decision-making. This can be achieved through the expansion of cooperatives, the introduction of progressive tax policies, and the implementation of social safety nets to ensure that wealth is more evenly distributed.
By empowering local communities and promoting direct democracy, Civic Liberalism also seeks to address the political disenchantment that many people feel. When citizens have a direct role in decision-making and can influence the policies that affect their lives, they are more likely to feel engaged and invested in the political process.
3.2 Environmental Sustainability
The environmental crisis, particularly climate change, is one of the most urgent challenges facing humanity. Civic Liberalism recognizes the need for urgent action to address environmental degradation and promote sustainability. It advocates for policies that prioritize renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable development.
Technological innovation plays a key role in Civic Liberalism’s vision for sustainability. Civic Liberalism supports research and development in green technologies, biotechnology, and other innovations that can help address environmental challenges while also improving human well-being.