To What Extent Are Liberals United In Their Views On The State_ (24) Politics Explained Essay Plan Flashcards
What is the core belief of liberals regarding the state?
Liberals view the state as necessary to prevent disorder and chaos, but believe its powers should be limited.
What do liberals fear about the state?
Liberals are deeply worried about the potential of the state to infringe on individual liberties.
Which philosopher’s beliefs significantly influence liberal thought?
John Locke’s belief in natural rights.
What is the role of the state according to liberals?
To prevent disorder and adjudicate disputes by providing law and order.
What do liberals support to prevent government overreach?
Checks and balances within government, a clear separation of powers, and protection of civil liberties.
What is the mechanistic theory of the state?
The state has been created by the people to directly serve their interests like a machine.
What does Locke’s social contract theory suggest?
Individuals form governments through an implicit agreement to ensure the protection of their natural rights.
What do liberals fear about democracy?
The potential for tyranny of the majority threatening the rights of individuals and minority groups.
What do liberals believe the state should promote?
Individualism, tolerance, and the protection of the rights of minorities.
What is John Stuart Mill’s harm principle?
Individuals should be free to act as they wish, provided they do not harm others.
What radical idea did John Locke advocate for regarding religion?
The state should not impose religious beliefs on its citizens.
What did Betty Friedan establish in 1966?
The National Organization for Women (NOW).
What is the key disagreement between classical and modern liberals regarding the state?
The size of the state in society and the economy.
What model do classical liberals support regarding the state’s role?
A ‘night watchman’ state.
What is the primary function of government according to classical liberals?
To protect individuals’ rights, including life, liberty, and property.
What do modern liberals advocate for in relation to the state?
An enabling state that empowers disadvantaged individuals.
What did Rawls argue about the state’s role?
The state should address inequalities created by the market.
What is the Beveridge Report known for?
Laying the foundations for the British Welfare State.
What is the classical liberal view on equality?
Support for formal equality but not active measures to tackle inequality.
What do modern liberals support to promote equality?
Affirmative action and laws to tackle discrimination.
What is the difference in views on democracy between classical and modern liberals?
Classical liberals do not necessarily support full democracy, while modern liberals do.
What did Mill caution against regarding democracy?
The impact of direct democracy and the need for educated representatives.
What constitutional reforms do modern liberals advocate for?
Measures to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral system.
What is the overall argument about liberal views on the state?
Liberals are largely disunited in relation to their views on the state’s role.
