Liberalism

Question 1

Key agreements between liberals in terms of the state

Answer 1

The state should promote individualism
The state is necessary yet has the potential to be evil, and therefore it should be limited
The state should treat individuals equally under the law, promote tolerance and protect the rights of minorities
The state should be based on liberal democracy

Question 2

Key tensions between liberals in terms of the state

Answer 2

Nightwatchman vs enabling state
State intervention in the economy
State intervention to achieve equality
Government by consent vs full equality

Question 3

Key agreements between liberals in terms of the economy

Answer 3

Support for capitalism and private property
Agreement that inequality holds women back in the economy

Question 4

Key tensions between liberals in terms of the economy

Answer 4

Laissez faire capitalism vs Keynesianism
Whether capitalism creates a meritocracy
State economic intervention

Question 5

Key agreements between liberals in terms of society

Answer 5

Society should promote individualism, freedom and progress
There are natural rights which the state is a threat to
Society should promote tolerance
Society should promote equality and social justice

Question 6

Key tensions between liberals in terms of society

Answer 6

Negative freedom vs positive freedom
Egotistical individualism vs developmental individualism
Formal equality vs equality of opportunity
Whether society is a meritocracy

Question 7

Key agreements between liberals in terms of human nature

Answer 7

Rationalism
individualism
Optimistic
Natural rights

Question 8

Key tensions between liberals in terms of human nature

Answer 8

Egotistical vs developmental individualism
Negative vs positive freedom