a viewpoint in which one advocates for neutral classical liberal principles in the face of illiberal forces despite the zealous willingness of illiberal forces to turn the tools of classical liberalism against itself in the pursuit of power. A believer in David Frenchism assumes that under a free speech doctrine, all views will be afforded space in the public square in the marketplace of ideas, and holds this view even when presented with overwhelming evidence that allied forces are being effectively squeezed out by illiberal forces. David Frenchism typically involves improperly assessing the facts on the ground, underestimated the strength and determination of a political opponent, and making naive, Constitution-based legal arguments that are tantamount to "powerlessness by design" that cedes the field to a political enemy.

See: Over a barrel
See also: Neville Chamberlain

eschewing using power of the state to

political opposition uses the tools of classical liberlism against itself to empower