Section 1 - Core ideas and principles

Question 1

Define Individualism

Answer 1

The primacy of the individual in society over any group as a primary political figure

Question 2

What is egotistical individualism?

Answer 2

Human beings are naturally drawn to the advancement of their own self-interestsand the pursuit of their own happiness

Question 3

What type of liberalism is the term ‘egotistical individualism’ linked to?

Answer 3

Classical Liberalism

Question 4

Due to natural laws, what was life before the state like in accordance to liberals?

Answer 4

Pleasant/ nice/ civilised

Question 5

What is the main purpose of a civil society?

Answer 5

To facilitate individualism

Question 6

Why is the right to property particularly important with Liberalism?

Answer 6

It is seen as the tangible expression of an individual within society.
It is also the ‘prism’ in which individuals develop their potential providing an opportunity within civilised communities.

Question 7

Why is it inevitable that Liberals should support capitalism?

Answer 7

As it puts private property at the heart of all economic transactions

Question 8

Define Rationalism

Answer 8

The belief that humans are rational creatures capable of reason and logic

Question 9

Outline the core themes/principles of liberalism

Answer 9

• Indivdualism
• Freedom/liberty
• Reason/rationalism
• Justice/equality
• Tolerance
  -Liberal Democracy

Question 10

Outline the Core concepts

Answer 10

• Human nature
• State
• Society
• Economy

Question 11

What is the liberal view of human nature?

Answer 11

Everyone is born equal, each person or individual is born free. We inherit the same human rights regardless of

Question 12

What is liberalism seen as, and why?

Answer 12

Liberalism is seen as a product of the enlightenment as it recognises that humans are rational creatures (capable of understanding the world and making decisions for themselves)

Question 13

What are the core principles of liberalism

Answer 13

• foundational equality
• Formal equality
• Equality of opportunity
• Social contract
• Meritocracy
• Mechanistic theory
• Tolerance
• Limited government

Question 14

Why is individualism important?

Answer 14

Individualism is important because it shows how people are different to each other but still have the same rights

Question 15

What is the state known as according to liberals?

Answer 15

A necessary evil

Question 16

What characteristics do liberals like about a liberal democracy?

Answer 16

• Accountability
• Open government
• Codified constitution
• Seperation of powers
• Legislative reform on the premise of greater democracy

Question 17

What is meant by a liberal democracy?

Answer 17

A democracy that balances the will of the people as shown through elections, with limited government and a respect for civil liberties in society

Question 18

Define Freedom/Liberty?

Answer 18

The ability and right to make decisions in your own interests based on your view of human nature

Question 19

What do Liberals believe about the state?

Answer 19

It is ‘necessary’ to avoid disorder, but ‘evil’ as it has potential to remove individual liberty, thus should be limited

Question 20

What do Liberals believe about Equality/Social Justice?

Answer 20

They believe that individuals are of equal value and that they should be treated impartially and fairly by society

Question 21

What is meant by a Liberal Democracy?

Answer 21

A democracy that balances the will of the people, as shown through elections, with limited government (state) and a respect for civil liberties in society