Liberalism Flashcards
4
John Locke (classical liberal) - 1632-1704
“where there is no law, there is no freedom”
optimistic view of human nature = people are rational
society is made up of self-seeking individuals
mechanistic view of the state = it is a servant to the people
the social contract = individuals must sacrifice some of their liberties in return for protection from the state
5
Mary Wollstonecraft (classical liberal) - 1759-97
“virtue can only flourish amongst equals”
all humans are capable of being rational; everyone should be treated as such
society has infantilised woman which inhibits individualism
women should receive formal equality under law; establishes foundational equality
liberated women can thrive independently and enhance a free market economy
4
John Stuart Mill (classical liberal) - 1806-73
key concept = harm principle
human nature desires to be free of control by others (negative liberties)
wants a limited state; intervention leads to the death of liberal democracy
laissez-faire capitalism = no state involvement within the economy
5
John Rawls (modern liberal) - 1921-2002
“a just society is one where the worst off are well off enough to get by”
optimistic view of human nature = everyone is ultimately rational
difference principle = it is ok for there to be inequality of outcome if it benefits the poorest in society
belief in state involvement within the economy; ensures everyone has a base standard of living
The Veil of ignorance - to make decisions and laws without knowing our own social status so as to create a fairer society and benefit all the people, including ourselves
5
Betty Friedan (modern liberal) - 1921-2006
Adapted JSM theory of higher and lower pleasures in her campaign for civil rights
women are as rational as men
society needs to reform in order for women to experience individualism
enabling state = must provide childcare so woman can work
liberated women are an asset to the economy
