Moderation Amidst Ruins.

This article examines the crucial role of moderation in Europe's post-1945 reconstruction, focusing on the Ordoliberal school of thought founded by Walter Eucken, which shaped the social market economy in post-war Germany. Ordoliberals like Eucken, Alexander Rüstow, Wilhelm Röpke, and Alfred Müller-Armack advocated for a free market economy balanced by ethical values, a limited but strong state, the rule of law, and vibrant social institutions, emphasizing economic and political moderation amid ideological extremes. Their concept of "social irenics" promoted reconciliation among diverse ideological traditions to create a humane market economy that integrates freedom, justice, and social responsibility. The article suggests that revisiting this model of radical moderation remains relevant today as a means to address contemporary political and economic challenges.