Ideologies-Liberalism Key Terms

Question 1

Individualism

Answer 1

Core Themes. The optimistic view that human nature is intrinsic (central) to the wider view of openness, freedom, and justice

Question 2

Freedom

Answer 2

Core Themes. The belief that you should have the right to choose what you want to do in order to achieve your potential

Question 3

Positive Freedom

Answer 3

Core Themes. Modern belief in self mastery and autonomy-state can be involved

Question 4

Negative Freedom

Answer 4

Core Themes. Classical belief in liberty from outside (often state) interference (Leave me alone!)

Question 5

Reason

Answer 5

Core Themes. The idea of targeting self-development and progress rather than state intervention. (Belief that Rationalists have ability to control/think up the state)

Question 6

Social Justice

Answer 6

Core Themes. Giving people what they are due and promoting equality of opportunity and fairness regardless of gender etc.

Question 7

Toleration

Answer 7

Core Themes. A pluralist approach with the idea of protecting the individual but also promoting the necessary diversity that allows society to further itself (not just accepting diversity but also celebrating it).

Question 8

The Liberal State

Answer 8

Core Themes. Where the individual sacrifices a portion of their liberty in order to set up the law. Allows the state to protect the individual whilst settling disputes.

Question 9

Constitutionalism

Answer 9

Core Themes. The belief that Government must be tamed through a system of checks and balances.

Question 10

Egotistical Individualism

Answer 10

Classical Liberalism. The belief that that that individuals are self interested rationally so therefore society is interpretable.

Question 11

Natural Rights

Answer 11

Classical Liberalism. God given rights- ‘life, liberty and property’.

Question 12

Utilitarianism

Answer 12

Classical Liberalism. The belief in maximising happiness whilst minimising suffering. All actions judged on whether it has produced happiness for the greatest number.

Question 13

Economic Liberalism

Answer 13

Classical Liberalism. ‘The ‘invisible hand’ would guide markets. No government intervention. Free markets.

Question 14

Social Darwinism

Answer 14

Classical Liberalism. The belief that those who work hard will prosper. Those who don’t deserve what they get. State should only provide minimum necessities.

Question 15

Neo-Liberalism

Answer 15

Classical Liberalism. Laissez-faire attitude. Free markets, reducing government tax. (Reversing state intervention)

Question 16

Individuality

Answer 16

Modern Liberalism. The idea of the individual as sovereign . (Necessary for humans to develop themselves)

Question 17

Positive Freedom (modern)

Answer 17

Modern Liberalism. The ability to attain individuality by realising one’s potential.

Question 18

Social Liberalism

Answer 18

Modern Liberalism. (The belief in welfare states). The idea that the state promotes equality of opportunity by reducing disadvantages that hold them back. Giving humans healthcare and education etc.

Question 19

Economic Management

Answer 19

Modern Liberalism. The belief that prosperity can only be delivered through some state management.