Offended Freedom: The Rise of Libertarian Authoritarianism

Today, a new kind of freedom fighter has emerged in our midst: liberal and open-minded, these individuals champion liberty and resent the imposition of more and more rules and exhortations that constrain their freedom. They are angry, disgruntled, offended. Why should they have to wear a face mask, get vaccinated or follow new rules on diversity and equality? They should be free to choose. They do not long for a glorified past or the strong arm of the state but argue instead for individual freedoms at all costs. 

Carolin Amlinger and Oliver Nachtwey see this new freedom fighter as symptomatic of the rise of a new political current in Western societies – what they call ‘libertarian authoritarianism’.  The rise of libertarian authoritarianism is a consequence of the promise of freedom in late modernity: the individual is supposed to be free and self-reliant, but in reality many people feel powerless in the face of an increasingly complex world, an experience that manifests itself in resentment, anger and hostility towards democracy.

Drawing on numerous case studies, the authors paint a vivid portrait of this new social figure of our time, showing how the unbridled pursuit of individual freedom can turn into authoritarian behaviour towards others, threatening the very basis of a free and equal society.

Carolin Amlinger is a sociologist and Research Associate at the University of Basel.

Oliver Nachtwey is Professor of Sociology at the University of Basel.