The word “liberal” gives yet more power to those who seek to take more of our liberties. Right-leaning publications often use the term “liberal” when “leftist” would be better. Walzer notes that so-called liberals don’t always manage to achieve their aspirations to be open-minded and tolerant. On a philosophical level, the word “liberal” is a bad fit for Democrats because the evolution of its meaning creates confusion. That’s why some people specify that they’re “social liberals,” not economic liberals.

Source: Washington Post March 13, 2023 21:30 UTC