The Paris Attack strengthens support for Liberalism

Unfortunately, we live in times where liberalism is no longer so mainstream.

What we may have shrugged off before as mild, parochial xenophobia, is turning nasty. Mr Cameron will accept less Syrian refugees in five years than Germany accepted in a week. Those of us who sympathise with all victims of IS, find this totally unacceptable.

Meanwhile, Her Majesty's Opposition represents a fortifying of the ideological left. Mr Corbyn's sympathy for clandestine groups, as long as they purport 'revolution' or 'struggle' in their pamphlets of hatred is unforgivable. A man that calls Hezbollah and Hamas his friends should have no place at the forefront of British politics today. But he does.

The snapshot social media picture this weekend on the Right shows a growing view of all refugees and Muslims as part of 'Them'. By the looks of things on the Left, the automatic response that 'western governments had it coming' gathers continued support.

Shocking events strengthens resolve, and in the current climate, polarised and insular discourse may strengthen too.

This is all tragically ironic. While the people of Paris were targeted indiscriminately, the lifestyle targeted was extremely specific: a free and progressive society with liberal foundations. My fear is that the terrorists were very successful at hitting that target.

It is clear where their cross-hairs are aimed. They are focused at well-considered, balanced viewpoints. I intend to stand proudly in the firing line.

The Lib Dems are, in my view, the only party that can listen, consult, and respond to protect our country's fundamental values. This weekend, my insignificant step to fight for modernity and progress was to join the party as a member. My resolve, too, has strengthened.

Adam is from North London and works in the volunteering projects team at Crisis, a national homelessness charity. He previously considered himself a floating voter.