This episode explores the history of liberalism, its decline, and how modern liberalism and conservatism are both corrupt descendants of classical liberalism. Dan Sanchez and Adam Knott discuss the rise of libertarian ideas, the influence of Herbert Spencer, and the patterns of state power and individual liberty from the English Civil War to today.

00:00 The Decline of Liberty: An Introduction

02:52 Understanding Classical Liberalism and Its Corruption

06:11 The Historical Context of Liberalism

12:50 The Role of John Locke in Liberal Thought

18:14 The Industrial Revolution and Its Ties to Liberalism

24:11 The Transformation of Political Parties

30:18 The Modern Corruption of Liberalism

36:31 The Shift in Values: Freedom vs. Welfare

40:14 The Self-Defeating Nature of Anti-Liberty Policies

49:20 The Cultural Amnesia Surrounding Libertarianism

55:12 The Historical Roots of Mercantilism and Crony Capitalism

01:01:17 Economic Nationalism vs. Individual Liberty

01:05:47 The Role of Government in Economic Policies

01:09:22 Libertarianism as a Distinct Ideology

01:13:12 The Impact of Leadership on Liberty

01:18:28 The Consequences of Mercantilism Today

01:22:31 Reflections on Historical Political Movements

01:46:31 The Future of Libertarianism