In Defense of Politics

Liberalism is the only possible option, and societies, even those defining their identity in opposition to this idea, are inevitably compelled to accept or surrender sooner or later. Its superiority lies not so much in its truth or validity, but in its overall compatibility with human needs and its sufficient flexibility in adapting to transformations. The submission of politics, power, and government is not necessarily in conflict with liberalism, provided that the liberal tradition is evaluated within the context of modernity’s transformations and that considerations of political philosophy are not constrained by the conditions of today’s Iran. These considerations can address both the interpretation of the past and the assurance of the future.