Liberalism: Key Thinkers Flashcards
Who is considered the father of classical liberalism and what concept did he develop?
John Locke
Social Contract
What are the key ideas in John Locke’s philosophy?
- People are free/equal/rational in the state of nature
ev face insecurity and conflict - Consent to a gov to protects their rights to life/liberty/property
- Rejects the divine rights of kings
- Argues gov legitimacy depends on the citizens
What was Mary Wollstonecraft’s main contribution to liberal thought?
- Advocates for the rights and education of women
- Argues that women deserve the same civil/political rights as men
- Women should have access to formal education
What were Mary Wollstonecraft’s views on marriage and women’s roles?
Believed marriage should be based on equality and mutual respect
Advocated for women to have more choices and opportunities
Who was Thomas Hill Green and what did he challenge in classical liberalism?
19th Century British philosopher
- Challenged the classic liberal view of humans as self-interested/atomistic
- Argued that humans have a social dimension and sense of moral responsibility
What did Thomas Hill Green believe about the state’s role?
Should promote the common good and enhances individual freedom
Freedom inc the ability to fulfill ones potential and participate in democarcy
What principle did John Stuart Mill formulate and what does it state?
Harm Principle
= state interference is justified when it prevents harm to others from individuals actions
What were JS Mill’s views on minority rights and freedom of expression?
Advocated for the protection of minority rights and diversity of opinions
Believes the majority opinion may not always be correct
What is John Rawls known for and what key idea did he develop?
Theory of justice as fairness
= based on a hypothetical social contract
Individuals choose principles of justice behind a veil of ignorance
What is the first principle of justice according to John Rawls?
Each person has an equal right to the most basic liberties
What is the second principle of justice according to John Rawls?
Social and economic inequalities should benefit the least privileged and be open to all under fair equality of oppurtunity
What did Betty Friedan expose in her book, “The Feminine Mystique”?
The dissatisfaction and frustration of women confined to domestic roles and denied equal oppurtunities
Women are equally rational
What legal and social reforms did Betty Friedan advocate for?
- Reforms such as the criminalisation of discrimination
- Provision of childcare
- Access to education and employment
- Legalisation of abortion and contraception
