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