Liberalism

Question 1

what are the main beliefs of classical liberals?
(six)

Answer 1

social contract theory
foundational equality
negative freedom
laissez-faire economics
representative democracy

Question 1

define social contract

Answer 1

the state is based on a contract between the government and the people

the government is accountable to the people

Question 2

define foundational equality

Answer 2

a belief that individuals are born with natural rights which entitle them to liberty, the pursuit of happiness and avoidance of pain

equal treatment of all individuals under the law

Question 3

define negative freedom

Answer 3

a conception of liberty as meaning an absence of constraints

a ‘freedom from’ rather than a ‘freedom to’

Question 4

define laissez-faire economics

Answer 4

a belief in the free market capitalist economy and minimal state intervention in economic, social, and political spheres

Question 5

what is the harm principle?

Answer 5

the idea that the state is justified in interfering with individual freedom when it is to prevent some citizens doing harm to others

Question 6

QUOTE
Locke stated that “government…”

Answer 6

“government has no end, but the preservation of property”

Question 7

LOCKE
what were his two key beliefs?

Answer 7

social contract theory
limited government

Question 8

LOCKE
what were his views on state, economy, human nature, and society?

Answer 8

St - anti-monarchist and believed the principle “govern by consent”