While John Henry Newman clearly balked at liberalism in his early days, that is not the entire story. To reach an accurate judgment of Newman on political and economic liberty, one must not be too quick to follow the common first impression. A second look reveals Newman's own second thoughts. This article argues that as his thought developed Newman warmed toward liberty while maintaining his criticism of the idea of automatic social progress. Through this lens, Newman's mature position becomes clearer, revealing his own contribution regarding the value of a free society.
David Paul Deavel, "Second Thoughts: Newman on Political and Economic Liberty," Journal of Markets & Morality 17, no. 2 (Fall 2014): 429-443.