Is liberal democracy running out of answers?

Sep 26, 2026 •

For decades, liberal democracy came with a promise: that with each generation we would become freer, wealthier, and have more control over our lives.

But after years of economic shocks, war and political upheaval, more and more people seem to have stopped believing that promise.

And in its place, we’re seeing political movements emerge that don’t just want different policies – they’re questioning some of the fundamental ideas our democracies were built on.

In his new Quarterly Essay, Time of Monsters, writer and broadcaster Waleed Aly argues this is part of something bigger – a crisis in liberalism itself.

Today, Waleed Aly on whether we’re entering a post-liberal age – and what might replace the old order.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.