Liberalism views on Human nature and the state Flashcards
What do all liberals agree about Human nature?
All liberals believe that individuals are generally rational, intelligent, keen to prioritise their individual happiness and fulfilment.
Humans are respectful of other individuals too.
Classical liberal view on human nature?
Classical liberals such as John Locke think that humans are innately blessed with such qualities such as intelligence, rationality and happiness they are innate, come from birth.
Modern Liberal view on human nature?
Modern liberals like John Rawls like to think that these qualities such as intelligence aren’t innate but instead such qualities are potential features of human nature that are needing to be developed.
John Locke view on human nature?
Humans are rational, they are guided by the pursuit of self-interest, but they are mindful of others.
Mary Wollstonecraft view on human nature?
Rationalism defines both genders intellectually, men and women are not very different.
John Stuart mill view on human nature?
Though humans are fundamentally rational, human nature is not fixed it is forever progressing to a higher level.
John Rawls view on human nature?
Mankind is selfish yet empathetic, valuing both individual liberty and the plight of those around them.
Betty Friedan view on human nature?
Human nature has evolved in a way that has discouraged the self-advancement of women.
What concept do modern liberals endorse when it comes to the ideas of human nature?
Modern Liberal endorse JSM concept of individuality - one that refers to what individuals could become, once they are enabled to fulfil their potential.
How do all liberals agree on the State?
All liberals agree that the state should function according to prearranged rules and procedures, with power fragmented and authority subject to the consent of the governed.
What is the dividing line about that state?
Liberals disagree on the extent of State activity and how democratic the state should be.
What do classical liberals think about state activity?
Classical liberals such as mill, in accordance with ‘negative liberty’ believe that state intervention should be minimal and individuals should be left unchecked [unless they are harming another person].
Negative liberty =
Notion of freedom that involves individuals being left alone to pursue their own destiny. Any attempt to interfere with this can be classed as an infringement of their liberty.
What state do classical liberals think it should be?
‘Nightwatchmen state’
‘Nightwatchmen state’ = ?
State should only be involved in law and order
What do Modern liberals think about state activity?
Modern liberals such as Betty Friedan believe that the state should play a larger role in accordance with the belief of ‘positive liberty’.
State intervention is necessary as as to ‘enable’ individuals to reach their potential.
‘Positive liberty’ =
Individuals who are left alone are often inhibited rather than ‘free’. Such individuals may need enabling so that they are ‘free’ to exercise their individual talents.
What do classical liberals think about democracy?
Democracy is a threat to property rights
What do modern liberals think about democracy?
They are satisfied that representative democracy enhances constitutional government.
John Locke view on the State?
The state must be representative, based on the consent of the governed [electorate].
Mary Wellstone craft view on the state?
The monarchical state should be replaced by a republic which enshrines women’s rights.
John Stuart Mill view on the state?
The state should proceed cautiously towards representative democracy whilst being mindful of minority rights.
John Rawls view on the state?
The state should enable less fortunate individuals to advance via public spending and public services.
Betty Friedan view on human nature?
The state should legislate to prevent continued discrimination against female individuals.
What is one key idea that all Liberals agree on when it comes to the state?
Rejection of the Monarchial state, they prefer a meritocratic state.
