Chapter 2 Freedom, 3 Equality - Introduction to Political Theory Flashcards
John Hoffman and Paul Graham
What is the presumption in favour of Freedom?
No one is to interfere with your freedom unless there’s a compelling reason to do so.
Berlin’s two concepts are…
Negative freedom/liberty, no one will interfere with your business.
Positive freedom/liberty, the means to be free are provided
Explain the difference Miller states between being unfree and being unable to do something.
Unable means no-one is stopping you but you do not have the means to do something due to natural causes, or your own doing.
Unfree means someone is prohibiting you from doing something, may it be on purpose or not.
What is the harm principle according to Mill?
No one should be prohibited to do something as long as it doesn’t bring non-consensual harm to others.
Mill on freedom of thought and expression
Ideas bring society forward, hence all thoughts and expressions should be allowed. This does not include encouraging others to violence, however you can express hatred.
Mill on freedom of action
As long as not conflicting with the harm principle, you may act however you want even if it’s stupid and possibly may harm yourself.
Originality and experiments in living may seem foolish to the mass, but can serve as inspiration to others and help society grow. It may not, it may just be stupid, but you are free to try.
What is moral autonomy ?
The belief that all humans are able to make informed choices for themselves.
What is moral equality?
The belief that all humans should be treated are equally as there is not reason to believe there is a natural inequality. I
What is legal equality?
All are equal before the law, however this does not take into consideration if the laws are unequal and discriminating.
What is equal liberty?
All have equal liberties (rättigheter). Liberties are divided in society and protected. If e.g. Jane and James express the same opinion, and Jane walks while James is thrown in jail for it - they are not equal.
What are the three sub-divisions of Material equality?
Equal access - All positions, or opportunities, are formally available to all. There’s no one restricting your access to the
Equal opportunities - All should be provided with the same opportunities
Equality of outcome - No matter opportunities, the result must be the same for all. E.g. affirmative action
Name the four ways of affirmative action?
Encouragement - e.g. tech-tjejer
Tie-breaking - e.g. choose the female candidate over the male
Handicapping - e.g. if you belong to a privileged group it’ll be harder for you to access certain things.
Quota system - kvotering.
What is the difference between equal welfare vs equality of resources?
Equality of resources means all get the same amount no matter need, whilst equal welfare means the amount is divided based on need. (Gustav mentioned a cake here)
Who speaks about positive and negative liberties?
(Isaiah) Berlin
Who states the difference between being unable and being unfree?
Miller
