Liberalism - origins

Question 1

REFORMATION

Answer 1

15th and 16th century – religious movement – protesters such as Martin Luther argued that individuals could undertake God’s working their own way – increased power of the individual against the Church.

Question 2

ENLIGHTENMENT

Answer 2

The Enlightenment of 17th and 18th century – intellectual movement which rejected absolutist arbitrary government. Early liberalism argued that humans were born both free and morally equal and no one naturally had the right to rule over others – directly attacked absolute monarchy

Question 3

MECHANISTIC THEORY

Answer 3

Mechanistic theory: argues mankind is rational and capable of devising a state that reflects their needs based upon by reason.

Question 4

OTHER

Answer 4

 Coincided with the English Civil War and overthrow of King Charles I.

 Influenced both the creation of an independent American Republic after 1776 and French Revolution 1779.

 Grew significantly in the 19th century but can be traced back to the breakdown of feudalism and
emergence of capitalism.