Individualism - core ideas

Question 1

what do classical liberals believe about individualism? (vague)

Answer 1

• they believe in egotistical individualism
• this refers to the belief that the individual freedom is associated with a rational sense of self-reliance and self-interest
• they believe that the preservation of individual rights and freedom is above any claims by the state or grouping in society

Question 2

What do modern liberals believe about individualism? (vague)

Answer 2

• they argue that classical liberalism underplays the inequality of society
• society is not equal and some individuals have a distinct advantage over others
• they believe that the idea that individuals are autonomous is overstated
• Modern liberals such as Rawls and Freidan argued for developmental individualism and equality of opportunity
• this refers to the fact that the individual should help themselves to improve (this is done by the state)
• classical liberals believe that the state should intervene as little as possible as opposed to modern liberals who believe that by intervening they can assist the individual

Question 3

what are classical liberals attitude to individualism?

Answer 3

• egotistical individualism, concerned with maximising their own utility (personal worth/value) so that they can thrive based on their own efforts and ability
• the state should remain the rule of law but respect negative freedom

Question 4

what do classical liberals believe about individualism (second)

Answer 4

• freedom of the individual is sacrosanct (unimpeachable)
• society should be atomistic : a loose collection of autonomous individuals
• Locke argued that the state should practice a limited government which does not infringe on individual freedom

Question 5

what do modern liberals believe about individualism? (first)

Answer 5

• argues for positive freedom

Question 6

what do modern liberals believe about individualism (second)

Answer 6

• perceive society as more organic in nature and that the state must intervene to help people

Question 7

what is individualism?

Answer 7

the primacy of the individual in relation to society over any group