Der Neoliberalismus – Entstehung, Kampfbegriff und Meinungsstreit / Neo-liberalism – origin, item of campaign and matter of controversy

The influence of liberal ideas and practice during the 19th century was significant also in Germany, but lost its power gradually due to protectionist tendencies at the end of that century. More or less monopolistic and private economic groups were admitted in the name of “laisser-faire”, and the state became ready to intervene into the market process in favour of special interests. At the same time a rather modest paternalistic system of welfare protection for the working class was introduced, which later on demonstrated a built-in tendency to expand. But the collectivist and socialist movement of the 20th century became dominant by the two World Wars and their consequences. This led to political and economic catastrophes of incredible dimensions. Therefore a return to liberal ideas was given a second chance. But a simple return to laisser-faire and mistakes of the historical liberalism were not intended. Therefore the new ideas were called “neoliberalism”.This is used by collectivists of all kinds as a catchword for everything they do not like. They define the new concept irrespective of the reforms included in the new liberal ideas. The author describes also the tactics used in this process.He then analyses some principal points used against neoliberalism and demonstrates the extent to which decisions are based on value judgements unavoidable in this liberal concept. In no event does this imply to have no convictions at all. In addition there are general requirements beyond supply and demand necessary for a liberal and humane economy.Then objections against neoliberal economic policy are discussed starting with some points put forward by Alexander Rüstow, a neoliberal himself, against the old liberalism and not relevant to neoliberalism when defined correctly as a reformed liberal concept. The author further shows that the economic policy of neoliberalism does not necessarily depend on the so-called neoclassical economic theory nor is the modern German and international economic policy generally dominated by neoliberal convictions. The modern critique against neoliberalism is - among other points - directed against stable money, limited budget deficits, wages limited by the requirement of full employment, and freedom of international exchange presented as dangerous “globalization”. The polemics against “globalization” could not be treated here in all of its details. Neoliberalism is also criticized because it only wants to admit social welfare when it is correctly financed and does not destroy self-responsibility.Public finance as well as structure and financing of social security and the conditions of the labour market are dominated by socialist policies, not only in Germany. It is absurd to make neoliberalism responsible for the deplorable result.It is shown that the adversaries of neoliberalism make practical proposals along keynesian lines without making sure that the conditions necessary for a success of these proposals are fulfilled.The author finally emphasizes that the hostile attitude of liberals and many neoliberals against the state and the public service as such must be changed if neoliberals really want to have some success.