Liberalism vs. Progressivism: Thoughts on MLK Day

The transformation of the term "liberal" in American politics and contrasts liberalism with progressivism, especially in the context of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The author observes that although the left celebrates King’s legacy, it has drifted away from the principles he stood for, favoring a progressive agenda instead.

1. Decline of Liberalism:

• The term "liberal" has become derogatory in political discussions, largely due to strategies from past political campaigns, particularly the 1988 election where George H. W. Bush labeled Michael Dukakis as a "Massachusetts Liberal. "

• This campaign effectively reshaped public perception, equating liberalism with elitism and weakness, contributing to a decline in the credibility of the term.

2. Distinction Between Liberalism and Progressivism:

• The article emphasizes that liberalism and progressivism are often confused but represent different philosophies.

• Liberalism is rooted in a belief in universal human rights and moral laws, aimed at promoting self-government and individual worth.

• Progressivism, in contrast, is portrayed as a more radical and flexible interpretation of Enlightenment values, focusing on adapting moral orders to contemporary circumstances.

3. Influential Thinkers:

• The author contrasts quotes from John Dewey, a key figure in progressivism, with Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting how their ideas reflect fundamentally different views on law and morality.

• Dewey’s perspective dismisses natural rights, asserting that people obey laws based on perceived consequences, while King argues for a distinction between just and unjust laws rooted in moral reasoning.

4. The Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.:

• Martin Luther King Jr. is portrayed as a pivotal figure of liberalism, advocating for equality based on character rather than race.

• The author laments that contemporary leftist ideologies misrepresent King’s dreams, opting for division based on race and collective guilt rather than his vision of unity based on individual merit.

5. Current Political Climate:

• The article argues that today’s left embraces progressivism over classical liberal principles.

• Unlike the more benign progressivism of the past exemplified by Dukakis, the author describes today's political leaders as more aggressive and radical, abandoning the tenants of liberalism and King’s philosophy.

The author concludes that Martin Luther King Jr. may have been the last notable public liberal, with the current political left not adhering to the values he exemplified. The piece reflects on the drastic shift in political ideologies, criticizing the abandonment of liberal ideals in favor of a more divisive progressive agenda, ultimately declaring both King and liberalism as relics of the past. 

https://amgreatness.com/2026/01/19/liberalism-vs-progressivism-thoughts-on-mlk-day/