liberalism - key thinkers' thoughts Flashcards
Locke
on human nature
Human beings are rational, guided by the pursuit of self-interest, but mindful of others’ concerns.
Locke
on the state
The state must be representative, based on the consent of the governed.
Locke
on society
Society predates the state: there were ‘natural’ societies with natural laws and natural rights.
Locke
on the economy
State policy should respect the ‘natural right’ to private property and arbitrate effectively between individuals competing for trade and resources.
Wollstonecraft
on human nature
Rationalism defines both genders: intellectually, men and women are not very different.
Wollstonecraft
on the state
The monarchical state should be replaced by a republic which enshrines women’s rights.
Wollstonecraft
on society
Society ‘infantilised’ women and thus stifled female individualism.
Wollstonecraft
on the economy
A free-market economy would be energised by the enterprise of liberated women.
Mill
on human nature
Though fundamentally rational, human nature is not fixed: it is forever progressing to a higher level.
Mill
on the state
The state should proceed cautiously towards representative democracy, mindful of minority rights.
Mill
on society
The best society was one where ‘individuality’ co-existed with tolerance and self-improvement.
Mill
on the economy
Laissez-faire capitalism was vital to progress, individual enterprise and individual initiative.
Rawls
on human nature
Mankind is selfish yet empathetic, valuing both individual liberty and the plight of those around them.
Rawls
on the state
The state should enable less fortunate individuals to advance, via public spending and public services.
Rawls
on society
The society most individuals would choose would be one where the condition of the poorest improved.
