LIBERALISM IN SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa liberalism exhibits the complexities and nuances of traditional, classical, and new liberalism but does so within the context of an ethnically and racially divided society (Hughes 1994,15). Liberalism in SA has therefore for a long time focused on racial peace providing equal opportunities and consultation for all. The question of race was foremost in giving content to where one stood on the political spectrum of SA. Even though they catered for the aspect of the race, the neoliberal policies in place benefit only the elite and particularly whites which shifted liberalism to promote the idea that even though blacks were historically inferior, they deserved equal opportunities when educated. Secondly, it’s purposed to convince people that individual freedom which includes freedom of thought, conscience, expression, and movement should be the apex political goal. Also, their liberalism promoted the gradual and incremental change in their political system with a nonviolent approach. Liberals such as Kane-Bearman argue that the government should not try to reshape man rather let him though imperfect, be free and pursue their self-interests while it protects the vulnerable from abuse.
In 1993, negotiations for South Africa’s constitution produced an argument between political parties from across the political spectrum, that is, the left-liberals and the classical liberals that were meant to promote an inclusive democracy for all South Africans and for the country to be divided into 9 provinces each with a representative. The legacy of this agreement was experienced in having an independent judiciary portraying liberalism in the sense that even though some did not agree they were willing to accept as long as it promoted democracy.
Reference
Enslin, P. (1997). Contemporary liberalism and civic education in South Africa. Current Writing: Text and Reception in Southern Africa, 9(2), 77-90.