Modern Liberalism Flashcards
What type of individualism does ML follow?
Developmental individualism.
What do ML believe about freedom?
Belief in positive freedom. Society was an organic whole that pursued the common good, as well as individual interests. Some state intervention is necessary for this to happen.
What is the ML view on civil rights?
Everyone is entitled to full civil rights, including women and minorities.
What is the ML view on equality?
Some state intervention is necessary to narrow inequality. True equality is impossible without social justice.
What is the ML view on society?
Foundational equality isn’t enough. People should make their own choices but society is more than the sum of individuals it contains.
What is the ML view on the economy?
ML’s are conscious of failings of free-market capitalism, State intervention is necessary for sustainable growth and to limit injustice in terms of unemployment and poverty.
When did ML emerge?
20th century.
Why do ML’s disagree with negative freedom?
Insufficient for good society. Leaves the disadvantaged to struggle. People need assistance to live truly free lives.
Why do ML’s support positive freedom?
Freedom is defined as self-mastery. Qualified state intervention in the economy and society liberates people from evils such as poverty.
What type of state does ML believe in?
Enabling state.
Where did the concept of an enabling state come from?
Awareness of inequality in late 19th century society - issues like low pay, slum housing, etc.
What is the job of an enabling state?
If individuals are held back by social circumstances, the state has responsibility to reduce/remove them.
Who wrote the Beveridge Report and when was it published?
Sir William Beveridge. Published 1942.
What did the Beveridge Report state?
Liberty should be available equally to all. This was impossible if society was held back by the 5 Giants of Poverty.
What are the 5 Giants of Poverty proposed by the Beveridge Report?
Lack of education. Ill health. Poor living conditions. Unemployment. Poverty.
