Liberalism Flashcards
What is the core belief of Liberalism?
Liberalism centers on individual freedom, autonomy, and the protection of rights, believing that individuals should be free to make their own choices within a framework that ensures fairness and justice.
Liberalism promotes the idea that individuals have inherent rights and should be able to pursue their own interests.
Who are the key thinkers associated with Classical Liberalism?
John Locke, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill.
What is the social contract theory in Liberalism?
It is the idea that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the authority of the government in exchange for the protection of their remaining rights.
What is the significance of John Locke to Liberalism?
John Locke is considered the ‘Father of Liberalism.’ He advocated for natural rights (life, liberty, and property) and believed in a government limited by a social contract to protect these rights.
John Locke’s ideas on natural rights greatly influenced the development of liberal political thought.
Define the term ‘negative freedom’ in Liberalism.
Negative freedom refers to freedom from interference by others, meaning individuals have the liberty to act as they wish, provided they do not infringe on the rights of others.
What is the difference between Classical Liberalism and Modern Liberalism?
Classical Liberalism emphasizes minimal state intervention, free markets, and individual responsibility, whereas Modern Liberalism supports a more active role for the state in ensuring equal opportunities and welfare.
Who is associated with Modern Liberalism and what are their key ideas?
T.H. Green and John Rawls are key figures. T.H. Green argued for positive freedom and the role of the state in enabling individuals to realize their potential, while John Rawls advocated for ‘justice as fairness’ and the ‘veil of ignorance’ concept.
What is the ‘harm principle’ and which Liberal thinker proposed it?
The ‘harm principle’ states that the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against their will, is to prevent harm to others. This principle was proposed by John Stuart Mill.
What is economic liberalism?
Economic liberalism advocates for free markets, private property, and minimal state intervention in the economy, rooted in the belief that economic freedom leads to prosperity and innovation.
How does liberalism view democracy?
Liberalism generally supports democracy as a means of protecting individual rights and ensuring government accountability, though it often advocates for a constitutional framework to protect minority rights against the ‘tyranny of the majority?
What is the ‘veil of ignorance’ concept introduced by John Rawls?
The ‘veil of ignorance’ is a thought experiment where individuals design society’s rules without knowing their own position in it, ensuring fairness and impartiality in the creation of laws.
Define ‘positive freedom’ in the context of Liberalism.
Positive freedom is the ability of individuals to achieve their potential and self-mastery, often requiring state intervention to remove social and economic obstacles.
What role does individualism play in Liberalism?
Individualism is a central tenet of Liberalism, emphasising the moral worth of the individual and the belief that individuals should be free to pursue their own goals and interests.
How do liberals justify the need for a state?
Liberals argue that a state is necessary to protect individual rights, maintain social order, and provide public goods, but its powers should be limited and subject to the consent of the governed.
What is the liberal perspective on equality?
Liberals support equality of opportunity, ensuring that all individuals have the same chances to succeed, rather than enforced equality of outcome.
