The National Union of South African Students: A Case-Study of the Plight of Liberalism, 1924-77

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Periodical article

Title:	The National Union of South African Students: A Case-Study of the Plight of Liberalism, 1924-77
Author:	Kline, Benjamin
Year:	1985
Periodical:	Journal of Modern African Studies
Volume:	23
Issue:	1
Pages:	139-145
Language:	English
Geographic term:	South Africa
Subjects:	liberalism student movements Education and Oral Traditions Politics and Government
External link:	https://www.jstor.org/stable/160469
Abstract:	Liberalism in South Africa has had a history of impotence because of its failure to adhere consistently to the belief that when the 'loss of liberty for non-whites' occurs, it 'inevitably meant [the] loss of liberty for white as well'. Instead, the predominantly English-speaking South Africans who backed this movement have attempted to promote liberal ideals while maintaining their white prerogatives, and have subsequently found the two to be 'incompatible'. The National Union of South African Students is an example of a liberal organisation's inability to solve this dilemma. The inability is not peculiar to Nusas but it is representative of South African liberalism. The incorporation of either moderate or radical ideals in a liberal framework has consistently alienated those left out, and their failure to compromise has debilitated liberal activities. The Nationalists have successfully nurtured this situation. These contrasting forces, with the Nationalist Government acting as a catalyst, have continually demonstrated the impotency of South African liberalism. - Notes.