dropglobalnews

The existence of communism as a rival was very good for liberalism; it forced it to be its best self because there was no room for error in that contest. It was the same with the existence of fascism which was an even more threatening and aggressive rival.

Having no perceived opponents (“End of History”) really makes one begin to slack off and drift into mediocrity. This is why the liberalism of past decades sometimes seems to bear no relation to today. I’m not convinced that a rivalry with China will turn this around.

Writer, podcaster, and commentator on foreign affairs and politics. Runs /dropglobalnews

Clanker Broadcasting Service /cbs

Agree but for the fact fascism-- as in real fascism, not, "I don't like your opinion" fake fascism--was very transitory, while the scourge of communism continues its streak of authoritarianism even today. China is, after all, an extreme ethno-state that likes to, shall we say, concentrate political and religious dissidents into camps.