Thomas Hill Green - Key Thinker 4

Question 1

What aspect of human nature did Green reject?

Answer 1

Rejected individuals were only egotistical.

Rather, individuals are motivated by the common good.

Happiness does not just come from self-indulgence, but also from making others happy.

Question 2

What did Green think the state should promote?

Answer 2

The state should promote the widest opportunity + choice possible.

Green believed this is the fundamental of ANY liberal society

Question 3

Was Green socialist?

Answer 3

NO

Believed the state should prioritise individual liberty and encourage self-interest

However, believed liberalism + happiness were socially connected.

People were not oblivious to other people’s happiness - other peoples moods affect one’s mood

Question 4

How did Green influence the societal foundations of liberalism?

Answer 4

Green known as a founding father of liberalism

Green is closely associated with ‘positive liberty’

Question 5

How did Green’s ideas effect the economics of a state and it’s responsibilities?

Answer 5

Greens views provided liberal politicians an argument to expand and enlarge the state’s responsibility / increase the welfare state.

E.g. Clement Atlee creating the NHS in 1948