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How to Be a Liberal

The Story of Liberalism and the Fight for Its Life

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How to Be a Liberal

By: Ian Dunt
Narrated by: Ian Dunt
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About this listen

From Brexit Britain to Trump's America to Orban's Hungary, liberal values are under attack.

In a soaring narrative that stretches from the English Civil War to the 2008 financial crash and the rise of populism, the journalist Ian Dunt tells the epic story of liberalism, from its birth in the fight against absolute monarchy to the modern-day resistance against the new populism.

This book explains the political ideas which underpin the modern world. But it is also something much more than that - it is a rallying cry for those who still believe in freedom and reason.

©2020 Ian Dunt (P)2020 Ian Dunt Politics & Government War Thought-Provoking Self-Determination Inspiring Imperialism Hungary

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This is a pretty masterful delineation of so many issues affecting societies today. Dunt untangles nationalism, liberalism, identity politics and various other social and political movements by moving through a history of liberalism. He makes relevant today, liberal ideas that have been blossoming for centuries. How to be a liberal is well worth listening to whether you're in need of a clarion call to liberalism or want to make sense of the western political and sociological landscape through a liberal lense.

Makes Sense of so Much

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I thought I had a pretty good understanding of the state we are in, how we got there and why but this book has been a revelation. A comprehensive refutation of Nationalism and why Liberalism matters more than ever. Reading the last few chapters, covering recent events in Britain, Europe and the US, casts a very harsh light over our political systems and leaders that will make you want to start a liberal revolution yourself. I'll be recommending this book to everyone I care about (and quite a few I don't).

A call to arms

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Ian Dunt expresses perfectly what it is to be a liberal and its history. He raises its failures and its triumphs in a fair minded and one could say liberal manner.

Liberal fair and good

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In "How to Be a Liberal," Ian Dunt delivers a masterclass on the history and philosophy of liberalism, reminding us why these values remain essential in our turbulent times. With eloquence and passion, Dunt weaves a compelling narrative that traces liberalism's roots from the Enlightenment to its present-day struggles against resurgent authoritarianism and populism.
Dunt's writing is a refreshing antidote to the cynicism and despair that often pervade political discourse. He celebrates the achievements of liberalism, from the abolition of slavery to the expansion of civil rights, while acknowledging its imperfections and ongoing challenges. The book serves as a powerful reminder that progress is not inevitable and that the fight for a more just and equitable society requires constant vigilance and engagement.
One of the book's greatest strengths is Dunt's ability to translate complex philosophical concepts into accessible and engaging prose. He deftly navigates the intellectual terrain of liberalism, introducing readers to key thinkers like John Locke, John Stuart Mill, and Isaiah Berlin, while avoiding the pitfalls of academic jargon. Even those unfamiliar with political philosophy will find themselves drawn into Dunt's clear and compelling explanations.
Dunt's passion for his subject shines through on every page. He writes with a sense of urgency and conviction, reminding us that liberalism is not just a set of abstract ideas, but a lived reality that shapes our everyday lives. His defense of liberal values is both intellectually rigorous and emotionally resonant, leaving the reader with a renewed sense of hope and purpose.
"How to Be a Liberal" is not just a history lesson or a philosophical treatise, but a call to action. Dunt challenges us to embrace the principles of liberalism – reason, tolerance, and individual freedom – and to apply them to the challenges of our time. He reminds us that the fight for a more just and equitable society is not a spectator sport, but a collective endeavor that requires the active participation of all citizens.
In a world where the forces of division and intolerance seem to be gaining ground, Dunt's book is a beacon of hope. He reminds us that the values of liberalism – reason, tolerance, and individual freedom – are not just ideals, but powerful tools for building a better future. "How to Be a Liberal" is essential reading for anyone who believes in the power of ideas to change the world. Can't wait for the next book.

A Stirring Defense of Liberalism in the Age of Populism

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The title “How to Be a Liberal” is a little misleading- the book is less of a “How to” and more like “A History of Liberalism” but that’s my only criticism.

The book uses historical evidence to firstly explain the origins of liberalism and then secondly to justify why we need it to oppose nationalism, fascism, communism, and identity politics. It does this from an international perspective.

I bought this book hoping to have a stronger sense of where my politics lie, and this book does succeed in providing this. I still have criticisms of liberalism more generally, but not of this book in particular.

An important book

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The history of libral thought and influences on society from the English Civil War to present times. How the masses have been duped into accepting " let things be" and herded into tribalism (Nationism as opposed to Patriotism). Some of the chapters on the rise of Stalin and the Nazi's make very disturbing reading for anyone with a sence of compassion and empathy for their fellow humankind. Overall the importance of the individual and the freedom of expression and autonomy (within societal excepted norms) is the main message of the book ( from my understanding). Overall this book as helped me to define my own political leanings in a world of gross manipulation and downright evil perpetuated
by the current establishments
Ian's narration is excellent. Articulate and tonally easy on the ears and mind.

Nationaiism and the horrors that it has created past present and God help us, Not the future.

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Well written and engaging. I really enjoyed the history elements of it, which highlighted humanities tendency to repeat the same pattern, and the need for the individual to think critically and the importance and need for liberalism in today's world.

A must read

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A non academic overview of liberalism. I picked up the odd factual error, but this is a non academic text. Dunt rarely gets into polemic but it is a steady, relentless attack on authoritarianism and othering. Dunt doesn't have the tones of an actor but I think the book is best read by the author.

An easy to follow and modern take on liberalism

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A sweeping history of political thought from the English Civil War to the present day, taking in philosophy, economics, literature and nationalism on the way. The central concern is the concept of the individual and the practical implications of freedom. Read extremely well by the author; normally I listen to my audiobooks at 1.2x speed but went back down to 1.0 for this for its tight delivery of material that needs your full attention. Highly recommended.

A Tour de Force

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At times quite hard work. Lots of history. But absolutely brilliant. I feel like it will take 2 or 3 listens to sink in.

I’m not sure it helps though! Being a ‘liberal’ is still bloody hard 🤣 Important point about the little conversations at the end. They matter, don’t let things slide because it is easy or diplomatic.

Brilliant.

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