Liberalism (Paper 1) Flashcards
Social contract
The idea that the state/society is set up with an agreement from the people to respect its laws which serve to protect them
Meritocracy
A society organised on the basis that success is based on ability and hard work
Mechanistic society
The idea that the state was created by “man” to serve the people and act in their interests
Limited government
The role of the government is limited by checks and balances, and a separation of powers because of the corrupting nature of power
Egotistical individualism
The idea that individual freedom is associated with self-interest and self-reliance
Developmental individualism
The idea that individual freedom is linked to human flourishing
Keynesianism
An economic system which requires government involvement to stimulate the economy to achieve full employment and price stability
Laissez-faire capitalism
An economic system, organised by the market, where goods are produced for exchange profit and wealth is privately owned
Negative freedom
The absence of external constraints in society as well as no interference in the private sphere
Positive freedom
The idea that freedom is about personal fulfilment and realisation of potential
Foundational equality
Rights that all humans have by virtue of being born, which cannot be taken away (also known as natural rights and inalienable rights)
Formal equality
The idea that all individuals have the same legal and political rights in society
Equality of opportunity
The idea that all individuals should have equal chances in life to rise and fall
