Chapter 2: Individualism Flashcards
Liberalism
An ideology that is based on the importance of liberty (freedom) and individualism (self-interest).
Includes individual rights and freedoms, competition, economic freedom, rule of law, and private property.
Liberal democracy
Form of government in which rights and freedoms of the individual are guaranteed. Including the right to vote for political leaders.
Age of Enlightenment
A late 17th-century cultural movement of intellectuals emphasizing reason, logic, and individualism rather than traditional ideas of class structure and religion.
Rule of law
No one individual is above the law.
Social Contract
People need to give up some freedom to live together in society and enjoy its benefits.
Private Property
Possessions that are owned by individuals. Also includes intellectual rights such as inventions or songs.
Economic freedom
The ability of individuals to act freely as consumers and producers. Can buy and sell any products at any price.
Self Interest
Your own personal interest, looking after your own needs.
Competition
Struggle between two or more people or groups for economic, social, or political advantage. Competition for labor, jobs, products, etc.
Thomas Hobbes
Life is hard. We need to give up rights to a great leader who will protect us.
John Locke
Father of liberalism. People are born free! We need rights. Governments exist for us and must reflect our wishes.
Jean Jacques Rousseau
He came up with the idea of the social contract as an agreement between the individual and government as a reflection of collective “general will” aimed at the common good. A collectivist.
Adam Smith
Wrote “Wealth of nations” Father of Capitalism. An Individualist.
