Liberalism- The State Flashcards
What do liberals agree on in terms of the state (individuals)
All liberals recognise that the state is necessary to protect the individual’s rights and liberties from threats posed by others
What do liberals agree on about the state
A powerful state poses an even greater threat to the individual. Therefore, all liberals believe in the concept of ‘limited government’ with constitutional limits, a separation of powers and checks and balances.
What else do liberals agree on in terms of in terms of the state (Legitimacy)
Individual interests take priority over these of the state- legitimate government requires consent and the state must stick to the terms of the social contract
How is this expressed…
Free and fair elections with universal suffrage. However, this is where tensions between liberalism and democracy are really apparent
What do CL’s think about the state inc. Locke quote
CL’s believe in a minimal state- state should protect negative freedom and guarantee formal equality. Locke argued for a ‘night watchman’ state that existed largely to protect property rights and act as a fair arbitrator between individuals competing for resources.
What did mary Wollstonecraft craft want the state to do
Give women equal protection under the law and equal political equality… quote stuff from society section
What do CL’s think of the welfare state
Welfare state and large state intervention generally makes individuals less self-reliant and more dependent on the state
