Liberalism 2.0 Flashcards
Human Nature-John Stuart Mill-1(optimistic)
Optimistic-Liberals are optimistic about human nature because they believe that humans have a huge capacity for progress and to create greater happiness.
In addition, they also believe in humanity being progressive and getting into a better state as time goes on.
Human Nature-John Stuart Mill-2(Rational)
Rational-They also believes that people are rational even though they make decisions based on reason and it is natural for people to debate, discuss and question whatever they face.
Human Nature-John Stuart Mill-3(paths)
Make own paths-They believe everyone makes their own path in life-they don’t believe in predetermination.
Human Nature-John Stuart Mill-4(self-interest)
Self interest-people prioritize themselves and look after their own interest.
Human Nature-John Stuart Mill-overall
To a degree, it shows the positive aspect of Human nature however they are underlying themes in liberalism such as individualism and that brings a degree of selfishness.
Society-John Locke-1(natural rights)
Liberals believe that within society they are certain natural rights such as life, property and happiness.
Society-John Locke-2
They expect life to be pleasant civilised and long.
Society-John Locke-3(key in society)
The liberals believe that individualism and individual freedom are key in society.
Society-John Locke-4(impinged)
They also believe that people’s rights should not be impinged on, any society that does this is not functioning properly.
The economy-Adams Smith -1(markets)
They believed in freedom of markets
Private property at the heart of the economy(which means that property is highly protected)-the centre of ideas.
The economy-Adams Smith-2(capitalism)
Supports capitalism
Adam Smith said invisible hand of the market and trickle-down economics. essentially this means that while it may seem like the obvious people are gaining profit from the economy the wealth will eventually trickle down to the masses.
The economy-Adams Smith-3(control)
everything to a degree has control but is not imposed by the state or anyone else.
Types of Liberalism
Classical Liberalism-(late 17th to late 19th)
Later classical liberalism-(early to mid 19th)
Modern Liberalism(late 19th-present)
Neo-Liberalism-Looks particularly at the economic side of liberalism.
The State-1
- The state plays an important role in resolving clashes between individuals and ensuring things are done fairly.
- Guarantee and protect rights e.g the Bills of the rights
The state-2(consent)
Government is thereby the consent of the people-Liberals think of it as democracy.
Social contract(limited/constitutional/fragmented Govt.)-constitution constrains the government from Tyranny to autocracy.
