Liberalism Key Thinkers-> Human Nature

Question 1

John Locke

Answer 1

Human beings are rational, guided by the pursuit of self, interest, but mindful of others’ concern

Question 2

Mary Wollstonecraft

Answer 2

Rationalism defines both genders:
Intellectually, men and women are not very different.

Question 3

John Stuart Mill

Answer 3

Though fundamentally rational, human nature is not fixed it is forever progressing to a higher level.

Question 4

John Rawls

Answer 4

Mankind is selfish yet empathetic valuing both individual liberty and the plight of those around them

Question 5

Betty Friedan

Answer 5

Human nature has evolved in a way that discourages self advancement among women.

Question 6

Tensions within liberalism

Answer 6

beralism
■ Human nature: all liberals believe that individuals are generally rational, intelligent, keen
to prioritise their individual happiness and fulfilment, and respectful of other individuals’ wish to do the same.
-However, early classical liberals like Locke, and neo-liberals like Hayek, believe that individuals are innately blessed with such qualities, while Mill and modern liberals like Rawls tend to think that such qualities are potential features of human nature, to be developed by enlightened liberal authorities.
- This is why modern liberals endorse Mill’s concept of individuality — one that refers to what individuals could become, once ‘enabled’ to fulfil their potential.