Illiberalness is a term that describes the quality or state of being illiberal. The concept of illiberalness encompasses the characteristics, attitudes, or actions that are contrary to liberal principles or inconsistent with a liberal perspective.
Liberals traditionally promote and value individual liberties, equality, and the idea of a democratic society characterized by freedom, tolerance, and fairness. Illiberalness, therefore, denotes the opposite of these ideals. It refers to a disposition or mindset that is intolerant, restrictive, or authoritarian in nature.
In a political context, illiberalness signifies the rejection or deviation from democratic norms and practices. It suggests a tendency to limit individual freedoms, suppress minority rights, or undermine the principles of inclusiveness and pluralism. This could manifest in policies that curtail freedom of speech, restrict access to independent media, or suppress opposition parties.
Moreover, illiberalness can be observed beyond the political sphere, in social or cultural contexts. It characterizes attitudes that are intolerant or discriminatory towards those who hold different beliefs, identities, or lifestyles. It can entail a reluctance to accept diversity, reject multiculturalism, or deny equal rights and opportunities to marginalized groups.
In summary, illiberalness refers to a lack of liberal values, and it encompasses elements such as intolerance, authoritarianism, restriction of individual freedoms, and the rejection of pluralism. It represents a departure from the principles that form the foundation of a liberal democratic society.
