Key Takeaways

• Progressivism is often linked with personal freedom and breaking traditional rules.
• The left has supported changes like legalizing drugs, sex work, and redefining family roles.
• Yet, there’s a hidden part of progressivism that values community and shared responsibility.
• A new conversation on balancing freedom with togetherness is rising among progressives.

Understanding Progressivism: More Than Just Freedom

Progressivism is often seen as a political movement that fights for personal freedom. It pushes back against old social rules and supports the right to live how you want. Over the years, many progressives have worked to change laws around topics like pornography, drugs, and sex work. Many have also challenged traditional ideas of family and religion.

The goal? To give every person more control over their own life. For progressives, personal freedom matters more than following outdated traditions. But is that the full story of progressivism?

The honest answer: No. There’s another side to progressivism that’s often overlooked — its communitarian side.

The Keyword: Progressivism

Progressivism is more than just about breaking rules or fighting for individual rights. It’s also about building better communities. In fact, progressivism started with a clear focus on protecting the common good. Activists of the early 1900s worked to improve cities, fight poverty, and help workers — all in the name of creating a fairer society.

This side of progressivism believed that people could be free only when the community was healthy and strong. Today, while the loudest voices may focus on personal freedom, many still fight for shared goals and stronger groups.

When Progressivism Meets Community Values

We often think that the left only pushes for individual choice, but that’s not always true. Some progressives believe true freedom happens in strong, supportive communities. They argue that family values, faith, and culture do not always have to mean oppression.

These progressives believe that instead of tearing down all norms, you can reshape them to be more just and inclusive. A loving family, a safe neighborhood, and shared traditions can give people strength — not just restriction.

For example, public services like free education, healthcare, and clean streets come from progressive values of fairness and unity. They help everyone, not just the lucky few. These ideas don’t only focus on the individual — they create networks of care.

A Clash Within the Movement

Still, these two sides — freedom and community — don’t always get along. Some progressives see tradition as a cage. Others see it as something that can be reformed and made better.

This divide shapes how left-wing groups talk about serious issues. On one hand, voices call for tearing down all old systems. On the other, activists work to build new systems that protect both freedom and belonging.

For example, look at the ongoing debates over gender roles, public schooling, or religion in public life. Is the best path forward one that removes all rules? Or should progressives update some traditions to fit today’s values?

Finding balance is not easy. But many progressives are starting to explore this middle ground — keeping freedom at the core while adding a strong sense of shared responsibility.

Why This Division Matters Now

Today, progressivism faces big challenges. Many people feel lonely, divided, or unsure about where they belong. At the same time, major social problems like poverty, racism, and climate change need teamwork more than ever.

If progressivism only focuses on individual choices, it might miss the chance to fix larger problems. That’s why some thinkers are calling for a return to the community side of progressivism.

They want a political left that brings people together, not just sets them apart. This could mean promoting neighborhood groups, supporting families in new ways, or rethinking what we owe each other as citizens.

Blending Values in a New Way

To grow stronger, progressivism may need to combine both freedom and community. Imagine a movement that supports your right to choose your life path while also helping you feel like you belong.

This could look like universal childcare, better mental health support, or even programs that help people from different backgrounds work and live together. It could also mean building public spaces where people can meet, talk, and help one another.

Such a movement would not tell people what to believe, but it would offer forms of togetherness that don’t depend on old systems of control.

The Future of Progressivism

Progressivism is not stuck in one mold. It has evolved over time — and it can do so again. By rediscovering its communitarian side, it could offer more powerful solutions for today’s complex problems.

In a world facing loneliness, division, and big challenges, the left has a chance to imagine new ways of living together. This doesn’t mean going backward. It means using the past — and present — to create a better future.

Progressivism isn’t just about the individual. It’s about all of us.

FAQs

What is progressivism in simple words?

Progressivism is a belief system that supports change and fairness. It focuses on improving life for everyone, especially those treated unfairly.

Is progressivism only about personal freedom?

No, it also includes ideas about building strong communities. Progressives care about both personal rights and shared responsibilities.

Why do some progressives support things like legalizing sex work and drugs?

They believe people should have the right to make choices about their own lives without being punished by outdated laws.

Can traditional values and progressivism work together?

Some progressives think they can. They want to reshape family, religion, and community in ways that include everyone while still offering support and unity.