Former President Barack Obama delivered a passionate speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention on Tuesday night, where he not only expressed his disdain for Donald Trump but presented a thought-provoking philosophical defense of American liberalism. Obama's address stood out among other convention speakers, as he delved into the fundamental values of freedom and equality that underpin the liberal tradition.

In his speech, it was important to note that the term "liberal" referred to the centuries-old philosophical tradition rather than its modern partisan connotation. Obama highlighted the belief that government should enable individuals to pursue their own visions for their lives, without imposing restrictions on religious beliefs or granting preferential rights to certain groups over others.

Obama's commitment to liberalism and his concern over the illiberal approach of the Trump administration led him to dedicate his high-profile speech to not only advocating for Trump's political defeat but also the need to challenge his philosophical stance. It is worth mentioning that Obama is not the first to assert that Trump opposes the principles of liberalism, as numerous books have already explored this crisis and proposed resolutions since the 2016 election.

Echoing the sentiments of many liberals, Obama criticized Trump's divisive political style, which he argued runs counter to the core principle of equality. Obama called attention to Trump's tendency to create divisions between "real Americans" who support him and outsiders who do not. He also highlighted Trump's belief that one group's success automatically means another group's loss, and his view that freedom entitles the powerful to act without accountability.

Obama vehemently expressed the view that this perspective was fundamentally flawed, not just for Democrats and progressives, but for all Americans. He emphasized that the foundations of the United States were deeply rooted in liberal thought, and that the values of freedom, equality, and unity should prevail over divisiveness.

"The vast majority of us do not want to live in a country that's bitter and divided," Obama stated during his address. He highlighted the importance of striving for a better future and the significance of unity, as evidenced by the enthusiasm surrounding the current presidential campaign.

Living out the liberal vision, according to Obama, involves embracing the diversity found within a large society and recognizing that fellow citizens deserve the same understanding and respect that we hope to receive. He emphasized that true freedom allows individuals to make decisions about their own lives and acknowledges others' rights to make different choices. Democracy, Obama stressed, is not merely a set of principles and laws but a reflection of the values by which we live.

It is crucial to note that Obama did not claim that Trump is un-American or that victory is guaranteed. Rather, he argued that Trump's beliefs contradict the values Americans hold dear and the true identity of the nation. Obama emphasized the ongoing struggle between the liberal vision he believes in and the authoritarian twin that challenges it.

In conclusion, Obama's DNC address provided a unique philosophical defense of American liberalism, elevating the discourse beyond partisan politics. His passionate defense of freedom, equality, and unity resonated with many who seek a united and inclusive future for the nation. As the 2024 election approaches, the philosophical battle between liberalism and illiberalism will continue to shape the direction of America's identity.