Liberalism Key Thinkers-> The State

Question 1

John Locke

Answer 1

The state must be representative, based on the consent of the governed.

Question 2

Molly Wollstonecraft

Answer 2

The monarchial state should be replaced by a republic which enshrines women’s rights.

Question 3

John Stuart Mill

Answer 3

The state should proceed cautiously towards representative democracy, mindful of minority rights.

Question 4

John Rawls

Answer 4

The state should enable less fortunate individuals to advance via public spending and public services.

Question 5

Betty Friedan

Answer 5

The state should legislate to prevent continued discrimination against female individuals.

Question 6

Tensions in liberalism

Answer 6

The state: all liberals believe that the state should function according to prearranged rules and procedures, with power fragmented and authority subject to the consent of the governed.
- However, liberals vary on the extent of state activity. Classical liberals like Mill, in accordance with ‘negative’ liberty, believe state intervention should be minimal and individuals left unchecked (unless they hamper the freedom of others).
- Modern liberals like Friedan, in accordance with the concept of ‘positive liberty’, believe state intervention should be much more extensive so as to ‘enable’ individuals to reach their potential.
- Liberals have also varied over how democratic the state should be. Modern liberals are satisfied that representative democracy enhances constitutional government, whereas early classical liberals saw democracy as a threat to property rights.