Liberalism- Tensions Within Liberalism Flashcards
How do classical and modern liberals differ in their view of human nature?
Classical liberals like Locke and neo-liberals like Hayek believe individuals are innately rational and intelligent, while modern liberals like Rawls and Mill think these qualities are potential features of human nature that need to be developed by enlightened authorities.
What is the classical liberal view of society’s relationship to the state?
Classical liberals believe that human society predates the state and view society as a collection of diverse, autonomous individuals seeking self-determination and fulfillment.
How do modern liberals view society in contrast to classical liberals?
Modern liberals like Rawls believe that in industrialized and urban societies, individuals are less autonomous and require state support (positive liberty) to achieve true freedom.
What is the neo-liberal stance on state intervention in society?
Neo-liberals believe that positive liberty and state support have stymied individuals, leading to a ‘dependency culture’ that must be corrected by reducing state intervention.
What is the common liberal belief about the function of the state?
All liberals agree that the state should function according to prearranged rules and procedures, with power fragmented and subject to the consent of the governed.
How do classical and modern liberals differ on the extent of state activity?
Classical liberals like Mill support minimal state intervention aligned with negative liberty, while modern liberals like Friedan advocate for more extensive state intervention to enable individuals to reach their potential (positive liberty).
How do liberals differ in their views on democracy?
Modern liberals are satisfied that representative democracy enhances constitutional government, whereas early classical liberals viewed democracy as a potential threat to property rights.
-What is the classical liberal and neo-liberal view of the economy?
Classical liberals and neo-liberals support a laissez-faire economy, based on private property and enterprise, following Adam Smith’s thesis.
How do modern liberals view economic management differently from classical liberals?
Modern liberals, influenced by Keynesian economics, believe capitalism requires regular state management to ensure full employment, contrasting with the laissez-faire approach of classical and neo-liberals.
What is the modern liberal stance on supranational organizations like the EU?
Modern liberals support supranational organizations like the European Union as part of their belief in managed capitalism, while neo-liberals often see such organizations as obstacles to global free trade.
