Core Ideas Flashcards
Foundational equality
All humans are born with equal entitlement.
Formal equality
In order for a society to be fair, people must consistently be treated equally.
Equality of opportunity
Ensuring that each individual has the same chances of success as they all have equal opportunities to create better outcomes.
Social contract
Governments only exist by the consent of the people; their role therefore is to protect basic rights.
Meritocracy
A society that is centred around the progress of the individual as a result of their personal efforts and achievements regardless of background.
Mechanistic theory
The state was created by man in order to serve the people and act in their interests.
Tolerance
Acceptance of the key tenet of freedom in which all ideas and beliefs are allowed to be kept even if they go against the mainstream.
Limited government
A government which is legally restricted in its powers.
Individualism
Primacy of the individual in society.
Egotistical individualism
Self-interested individuals know what is best for themselves and therefore the state should leave them alone and be minimal. Individuals should also be allowed therefore to keep as much wealth as possible.
Developmental individualism
Individuals may choose to make social progress and express a degree of altruism, the state should provide essential welfare and some wealth distribution.
Freedom/liberty
The ability and right to make decision in your own interests based on your view of human nature.
State
This is necessary for protection from disorder but also evil as it can remove individual liberty, therefore it must be existent yet limited.
Rationalism
Humans are rational creatures capable of reason and logic.
Social justice
Individuals should be treated impartially and fairly by society.
