liberalism

• what two movements influenced the origins of liberalism?

  Reformation and enlightenment
• how did the enlightenment influence liberalism?

  rejection of 'absolutist' arbitrary government
• what is the belief in egotistical individualism?

  the belief that humans are naturally drawn to advancements of their own selfish interests, but this does not lead to conflict as individuals are both egotistical and reasonable
• how do liberals see human nature?

  optimistic, rational
• what does individualism in society lead to?

  self-reliance and self-realisation
• what was Jphn Stuart Mill's idea linked to individualism?

  developmental individualism
• what is the 'natural' society?

  a natural society with natural rights and natural property ownership preceding the state, influencing principles of tolerance, diversity, and foundational equality
• what did John Stuart Mill say the main pupose of any civilised society is?

  to facilitate individualism
• what was Mill's work and how did he define individualism?

  'On Liberty' 1859 , freedom from dependence on others
• what did classical liberals say about the importance of private property?

  saw it as the tangible expression of an individual within society
• how did locke define the 'right to property'?

  'that with which man has mixed his labour'
• how did later liberals define property?

  Mill - property is the 'prism' through which individuals develop their potential
• how did locke define the ideal state?

  gov by consent
• what is the purpose of the state for liberals?

  to protect natural rights and arbitrate disputes between autonomous, competing individuals
• which two thinkers influence the principle of tolerance?

  Mill - harm principle and Betty Friedan - tolerance of minorities
• how is formal equality embodied in the liberal state?

  Bill of rights, rule of law
• which principle contrasts to aristocracy preceding liberalism?

  meritocracy
• which principle is supported by foundational equality?

  principle of justice
• what is the principle of foundational equality?

  classical liberal belief that everyone is born with legal equality
• how did John rawls influence the development of the liberal state?

  emphasised idea of an enabling state to ensure equality of opportunity, using veil of ignorance
• what was Adam Smith's contribution to the liberal economy?

  The Wealth of Nations (1776) - promoted private enterprise and private ownership, made the case for free market economics through the 'invisible hand' of free market forces guiding traders towards success, with resulting wealth tickling down
• why is liberalism consistent with capitalism?

  minimal state + belief in private property