LIBERALISM Flashcards
What are the two key tenets of a liberal society
Society must protect your individualism, Rights are protected (e.g Rights to Property)
Why would a liberal favour a capitalist system
A free market with minimal state intervention -> fits with the view of a minimalist state
Allows a meritocracy -> by nature in capitalism there are ‘winners’ and ‘losers’
Promotes individualism -> forces people to be more reliant on themselves
Why is the state seen as a necessary evil
It restricts natural freedoms, but stops people from infringing on other peoples freedoms
What is foundational equality
Everyone is BORN equal
What is formal equality
Everyone is equal under the LAW
What is the mechanistic theory of liberalism
Humans are rational and have free will, therefore are capable of devising a society that suits their individual needs. (Defies the divine right of kings)
The four stipulations of a liberal economy
Individuals can’t take something if it involves harming others
Individuals can’t take possession of more than they can use
Individuals must have enough and good for others
Individuals can on,y acquire property through their own labour
What are the four key themes of a CLASSICAL liberalist society
Egotistical individualism, Atomistic Society, Minimal State, Laissez-Faire economy
What is atomistic
A collection of autonomous individuals
What was Thomas Jefferson’s most famous quote on CLASSICAL liberalism
‘Most bad government has grown out of too much government’
What theory on classical liberalism did Herbert Spencer introduce
Social Darwinism and ‘survival of the fittest’
Name three late classic liberal thinkers
Bentham - Utilitarianism
Smiles - self-reliance, rugged individualism
Spencer - Social Darwinism, ‘survival of the fittest’
