The PRIVATE INITIATIVE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE SELF-PROCLAIMED “FOURTH TRANSFORMATION” IN MEXICO: AN IDEOLOGICAL APPROACH

Abstract

The article analyzes the role of private initiative in Mexico from an ideological perspective within the context of the so-called “Fourth Transformation.” It begins with a historical and philosophical overview of liberalism—from Cicero, Saint Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, and Kant to modern liberal thought—emphasizing individual freedom, human dignity, and private property. From this framework, it examines Mexico’s political and economic evolution from revolutionary nationalism and neoliberalism to the rise of populism. The author argues that recent governments have dismantled institutional advances, weakened the rule of law, and discouraged private investment through ideologically driven, clientelist policies that undermine the separation of powers. The article concludes that Mexico must return to a democratic, institutional form of liberalism that strengthens private initiative, legality, and checks and balances as essential conditions for economic development and civic freedom.