Negative freedom is the freedom from external constraints, such as the law, that limit our behaviour.
Classical liberals believe that negative freedom allow the individual the widest freedom to pursue their own rational interest
Egotistical individualism is the belief that individuals are driven by self-interest and personal autonomy. It highlights the significance of personal freedom
Believe that a minimal ‘night-watchman’ state to protect rights and freedoms and do not get involved in people’s private lives
What are classical liberal’s view on society?
Atomistic view: merely a collection of self-seeking individuals
What are the natural rights?
Life, liberty, and property.
What was the classical liberal’s view on the economy?
Laissez-Faire Capitalism: Free market and private property with no state intervention
Adam Smith argued that the ‘individual hand’ of the market forces had a limitless capacity to enrich society and enrich individuals within it.
What is trickle down economy?
Economic theory that benefits for the wealthy will eventually "trickle down" to the rest of society.
Liberals believe that checks and balances are necessary to prevent the government from becoming too powerful
