Key thinkers views on human nature, the state, society and the economy Flashcards
Locke’s views on human nature.
Human beings are rational, guided by the pursuit of self-interest, but mindful of others’ concerns.
Locke’s views on the state.
The state must be representative, based on the consent of the governed (social contract theory).
Locke’s views on society.
Society predates that state: there were ‘natural’ societies with natural laws and natural rights.
Locke’s views on the economy.
State policy should respect the ‘natural right’ to private property and arbitrate effectively between individuals competing for trade and resources.
Wollstonecraft’s views on human nature.
Rationalism defines both genders: intellectually men and women are not very different.
Wollstonecraft’s views on the state.
The monarchical state should be replaced by a republic which enshrines women’s rights.
Wollstonecraft’s views on society.
Society ‘infantilised’ women and thus stifled female individualism.
Wollstonecraft’s views on the economy.
A free-market economy would be energised by the enterprise of liberated women.
Stuart Mill’s views on human nature.
Though fundamentally rational, human nature is not fixed: it is forever progressing to a higher level.
Stuart Mill’s views on the state.
The state should proceed cautiously towards representative democracy, mindful of minority rights.
Stuart Mill’s views on society.
The best society was one where ‘individuality’ co-existed with tolerance and self-improvement.
Stuart Mill’s views on the economy.
Laissez-faire capitalism was vital to progress, individual enterprise and individual initiative.
Rawls’s views on human nature.
Mankind if selfish yet empathetic, valuing both individual liberty and the plight of those around them.
Rawls’s views on the state.
The state should enable less fortunate individuals to advance, via public spending and public services.
Rawls’s views on society.
The society most individuals would choose would be one where the condition of the poorest improved.
