What are the differences between liberalism and socialist internationalism?

Many people are

often confused about the difference between the two, as there are many theories and definitions
about liberalism and social internationalism on the internet. Thus, liberal, and socialist
internationalism represent two distinct approaches to global cooperation and governance, in the
realm of political ideologies. Although both ideologies share a common emphasis and importance
on international relations, their underlying objectives, aims and their principles differ significantly. In
this essay, let’s explore the key differences between liberal and socialist internationalism as well as
delving into their perspectives on issues such as globalization, foreign policy, and the role of
international institutions. Through this analysis, I hope to provide a comprehensive understanding
of these ideologies and their relevance in the contemporary world.

According to Oxford reference, a political ideology centered upon the individual (see
individualism), thought of as possessing rights against the government, including rights of due
process under the law, equality of respect, freedom of expression and action, and freedom from
religious and ideological constraint. Liberalism is attacked from the left as the ideology of free
markets, with no defense against the accumulation of wealth and power in the hands of a few, and
as lacking any analysis of the social and political nature of persons. It is attacked from the right as
insufficiently sensitive to the value of settled institutions and customs, or to the need for social
structure and constraint in providing the matrix for individual freedoms.

The first review related literature stated that liberalism is a moral and political philosophy that
ensures equality, freedom, and respecting the rights of each individual in a particular country. The
state ensures that every person has the right to live a life with freedom and should be treated equally
regardless of gender, status, religion, etc. It also views globalization as a positive force since it
promotes economic integration. In addition to this, liberal internationalism emphasizes the
importance of free trade as well as open borders as they lead to global prosperity, stability, and
peace among nations. They believe that if there are fewer government restrictions, the business will
be more productive, which will help the economy grow. In a nutshell, liberalism believes that
protecting the rights of each individual’s life, and liberty should be the highest goal of the
government.

According to Lagua (2021) socialist internationalism, is possible to build a better world based
upon the twin goals of equality and social justice. Nations should work together to create a more
peaceful world and finally bring an end to capitalist exploitation. Socialist internationalists argue that
there is a shared common interest amongst the working-class. Our identity is determined by
economic forces rather than artificially imposed national boundaries. According toa study, the work
of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels serves as the inspiration for socialist internationalism, in the
Communist Manifesto these thinkers expressed the idea working-class people have no country and
therefore one cannot take from them what they do not possess. Therefore, nationalism must be
substituted for class consciousness in the form of socialist internationalism, in which there is an
encouragement for the international overthrow of capitalism by the globe's proletariat.

The second review related literature states that social internationalism is based on socialist
or Marxist principles and Friedrich Engels. Social internationalism aims to collaborate with and
support each nation in order to address and lessen the severity of global crises including poverty,
inequality, and the violation of human rights. In addition to this, they advocate for a fair economic
system that decreases the gap between wealthy and developing nations and they recognize the
importance of human rights. For socialist internationalism, human rights should be protected and
promoted worldwide. In a nutshell, social internationalism aspires to create a world that values
human dignity, equity, and cooperation while focusing on the rights and well-being of each individual.

It is crucial to understand that, despite advocating for individual liberty and economic
expansion, liberal internationalism is criticized for entrenching inequality and ignoring issues related
to social welfare. On the other hand, socialist internationalism prioritizes social justice and equality
but faces opposition about the viability and effectiveness of collective ownership and centralized
decision-making. Equality for all, respect for human rights, individualism, and economic freedom are
core liberal principles. Additionally, liberals typically advocate secularism, open markets, a free
press, freedom of expression, and religious freedom. The government is in charge of the production
and distribution of products and services under socialist internationalism, on the other hand.
Additionally, it offers free healthcare, medical facilities, a reduction in poverty, and environmental
advantages.

Liberalism and social internationalism, in my opinion, both advance equality, peace, security,
autonomy, and humanitarianism. Additionally, it can guarantee and raise quality of life. Equal rights
and opportunities are the goal of liberalism. The goal of socialism, on the other hand, is for social
and economic equality for all people. The distinctions between liberalist and socialist
internationalism highlight different viewpoints on the functions of markets, personal freedom, social
fairness, and collective accountability. Despite having different objectives and strategies, both
ideologies aim to tackle the problems that arise from a connected world. In the end, finding a middle
ground to construct a future that embraces the core principles of freedom, equality, and human
dignity for all will need nuanced engagement, learning from the strengths and shortcomings of these
two positions.

References

Oxford Reference. (n.d.). Liberalism.

https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100103823

Laqua, D. (2021, May 5). Internationalism — EGO. http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:0159-

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