Self-poisoning of liberal democracy Cover Image

Samozatrucie demokracji liberalnej
Self-poisoning of liberal democracy

Author(s): Agnieszka Turoń-Kowalska, Tomasz Słupik
Subject(s): Political Theory
Published by: Uniwersytet Ignatianum w Krakowie
Keywords: Open society; self-negation; liberal democracy; crisis; self-poisoning of democracy.

Summary/Abstract: RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The scientific aim is to present the problem of self-negation of an open society in the face of the crisis of liberal democracy. THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The condition of liberal democracy is currently subject to fundamental criticism. The research problem concerns the causes of this state of affairs, which the authors see in the phenomenon of "self-poisoning" of liberal democracy. In reference to the "open society", which was a symbol of openness, freedom, tolerance and pluralism, one can ask whether liberal democracy, through the consistent implementation of postulates, has not become a reason for a threat to democratic values. The paradigm of liberal democracy and open society is analyzed, supported by a philosophical and historical analysis. THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The article begins with an attempt at a synthetic definition of the open society and its self-negation, which is the foundation of liberal democracy. Then, the history of the idea of liberal democracy is analyzed in connection with the contradictions that result from it. On this basis, the causes of the crisis of liberal democracy are articulated. RESEARCH RESULTS: The analysis of the problem of self-negation of the open society has shown the weakness of democracy, which should fear not only external enemies. Consistency with the assumptions of democracy can inevitably lead to its "self-poisoning". The history of liberal democracy is a perfect example of such a process and explains the reasons for its crisis today. CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS: In their conclusions, the authors indicate that the assumptions of pluralism, liberalism, and democracy constitute a significant threat to the contemporary state of liberal democracy. Moreover, the authors explain, based on the definition of self-negation, the reasons for the crisis we are currently struggling with.

  • Issue Year: 16/2025
  • Issue No: 55
  • Page Range: 181-201
  • Page Count: 21
  • Language: Polish
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