In recent years, the middle class has seen a shift in its values and beliefs, with many moving away from the liberal values they once held. Roxane van Iperen, a Dutch thinker and writer, has explored this phenomenon in her work, particularly in her book “Eigen Welzijn Eerst: How the Middle Class Lost Its Liberal Values.” In this book, van Iperen examines how the middle class has shifted away from its liberal values and how this has impacted their sense of identity.
Losing Liberal Values: How the Middle Class Fell Out of Favor
In her book, van Iperen explains how the rise of neoliberalism and the economic crisis of 2008 led to a shift in the values of the middle class. She argues that the economic turmoil of the time caused many to become disillusioned with the idea of liberal values, leading them to instead embrace a more conservative, self-centered viewpoint. This shift in values, which van Iperen refers to as “Eigen Welzijn Eerst” (“Self-Interest First”), has led to a sense of alienation and disenchantment among the middle class.
Van Iperen notes that the values of the middle class have changed drastically in the past decade. She argues that the economic crisis of 2008 caused many to abandon their liberal values in favor of a more conservative approach. This shift has caused a sense of alienation and disenchantment among the middle class, as they have been forced to confront their own economic realities.
The Impact of "Eigen Welzijn Eerst" on Roxane van Iperen.
Van Iperen’s book examines how the shift in values of the middle class has impacted her own life. She explains that she has felt a sense of disenchantment and alienation as a result of the shift, noting that she no longer identifies with the values of the middle class. She also notes that her own outlook on life has been affected by this shift, as she has become more focused on her own self-interest rather than the collective good.
In conclusion, van Iperen’s book provides a fascinating insight into the changing values of the middle class. She argues that the economic crisis of 2008 caused many to abandon their liberal values in favor of a more conservative, self-centered viewpoint. This shift has had an immense impact on the middle class, leading to feelings of alienation and disenchantment. Additionally, van Iperen’s own life has been affected
Today, one of the main topics of discussion in Dutch society is the concept of Eigen Welzijn Eerst, or ‘self-centeredness first’, which has been the increasing norm for middle class Dutch people over the past decades. In her new book, “Hoe De Middenklasse Haar Liberale Waarden Verloor” (‘How The Middle Class Lost Its Liberal Values’), Roxane Van Iperen examines this new phenomenon and its implications for Dutch society as a whole.
Van Iperen argues that the concept of Eigen Welzijn Eerst, which has become increasingly normalized over the last few decades, has its roots in the era of neoliberalism and focus on individualism, which has engulfed much of Europe since the 1980s. According to Van Iperen, this heightened focus on individual well-being has led to the erosion of traditional liberal values amongst the middle class, such as solidarity and mutual aid. She claims that this has had a negative effect on the Dutch nation, as the need for public welfare and assistance has grown, with the government unable to provide the support that is necessary due to the decreased willingness of privileged citizens to contribute to the collective good.
The book provides a thorough analysis of the issue and offers a powerful critique of the current status quo. It also offers suggestions for how the damage can be rectified, such as through increased public education, increased tax revenue, and better social welfare benefits. Overall, it is an excellent read and provides valuable insight into the current state of Dutch society and its future path. Highly recommended.