Core Values of Liberalism

Question 1

Core values of human nature

Answer 1

• Disagrees with the Original Sin - a more optimistic view that humans can bring progress and has an unending ability to be happy.
• Rationality is mankind’s universal feature - self-seeking and self-serving which prevents destructive selfishness and competition. Individuals are egotistical but reasonable, so are sensitive to other views.
• The natural condition of humans: self-awareness, peace and mutual understanding.

Question 2

Core values of the state

The origins and objectives

Answer 2

• Origins = necessary but minimal to ensure quicker resolutions between egotistical individuals.
• Objectives = upholds law and order, resolves disputes and protects individual rights and private property.

Question 3

Characteristics of the state in core values

Answer 3

• Rejection of the traditional state = rejects rule by absolute power and desires a government by consent.
• Govt by consent = legitimate only done by voting, so people agree to authority and restriction in return for their individualism.
• Promotion of natural rights and individualism = preserves an individual’s natural rights - life, freedom, and politically.
• Promotion of tolerance and recognises humans are drawn to societies that accommodate individualism rather than isolation.
• Meritocracy = no hereditary power allowed.
• Equality of opportunity = ‘foundational equality’ to support individuals’ potential. If an individual fails, they must assume total responsibility.
• Justice = treating individuals justly without a regard to their identity.

Question 4

Methods and structures of the state

Answer 4

• Constitutional/limited government = prevents abuse of individuals as they must rule according to prearranged rules and prevent erosion of rights.
• Fragmented government = the dispersal of state power by introducing checks and balances - avoids concentrated power.
• Formal equality = Follows the doctrine of the rule of law, including political rights.

Question 5

Core values of the economy

Answer 5

• Capitalism is at the core, supporting wealth creation and suggesting hierarchy and wealth inequality is natural.
• Associated with private ownership of the economy - links with minimal state.
• Defends a market-based economy and refutes ‘fundamentalist socialism’. Believes in ‘trickle down’ economics which will benefit all.
• Stresses individualism, the endorsement of capitalism is linked to its positive view of human nature.

Question 6

Core values of society

Answer 6

• Hobbes argues HN is so brutally selfish, no society could possibly arise or survive until it’s restrained by a strong, formal authority (a state).
• Locke’s view citing the existence of natural society within natural laws/rights before creation of the state.
• Humans are rational - seeks freedom from dependency and desire to fulfil their potential and facilitate individualism. Any society which seeks to deny this is dysfunctional.
• ‘Right’ to property is regarded as an important expression of individualism - later liberals see property as the prism to develop taste.