liberal democrats Flashcards
what characterises liberalism?
-freedom of speech, religion etc
-equality
-constitution
what is an ideology?
-a coherent set of ideas and beliefs about the world that drive political action
what are the core values of the liberal democrats?
- a constitution - emphasis on protecting the freedom of the individual by limiting power of government and state
-capitalism: the individual should be free to pursue their own economic self interest
what is progressive liberalism?
-argues that for all people to be truly free, the state would need to play a greater role e.g. through economic intervention and a welfare state
origins and history of the liberal democrats:
-created in 1988
-a combination of the liberals and social democrats
-they were the principal opposition to the conservatives until the rise of labour in the mid 20th century
-first leader = Paddy Ashdown
-by 1997 they were the second largest party in local government
-key liberal = Keynes
liberal democrats’ policies 2024
-legalise cannabis
-reduce voting age to 16
-change voting system
-more tax on private jet users
membership of liberal democrats:
over 90,000
number of MPs:
15
demography of lib dem supporters:
-above average support amongst 25-34 and 35-44
-above average support in AB classes
-above average support in east midlands, london, south east and south west
profile of leader:
-ed davey
-elected in 2020
-campaigner for strong public services, a fair economy and a thriving natural environment
-core values = community, compassion and fairness
factions of the lib dems:
-Beveridge group - promotes debate within the party regarding public service provision, and set up a response to a perceived rightwards shift in lib dem thinking
- liberal left - created as an internal pressure group for the influence of government policy
