Types of Liberalism: Neo-liberalism

What is neo-liberalism closely associated with?

Conservatism

What did Friedrich von Hayek say about neo-liberalism?

• ‘Third strand’ of liberal ideology

• The Road to Serfdom (1944): ‘not a conservative’

Why did von Hayek say he wasn’t a conservative?

He favoured radical change over conservative stability

What is an example of a recent neo-liberal?

Adam Smith Institute

What is an example of neo-liberals opposing social policy associated with conservatism?

Cameron’s government of marriage via the tax system has been attacked as an unwelcome example of state intrusion

How is neo-liberalism a distinct branch of liberalism?

• Seeks to update the principles of classical liberalism

• Offers liberal critique of modern liberalism, accusing it of a betrayal of individualism

What is an example of neoliberals critiquing modern liberalism?

Hayek criticised the Beveridge Report for fostering a form of ‘state paternalism’ or ‘dependency culture’

→ Legitimising an endless extension of state restraint upon individuals

What caused neo-liberals to re-advertise the merits of negative freedom and a minimal state?

• Crises of 1970s

• Effeciency of Keynesian economics and welfare spending brought into question

• Called for politicians to ‘roll back the frontiers of the state’ and ‘set the people free’

How did neo-liberals want to implement rollback?

Demanded a reduction in public spending

→ Often facilitated by the privatisation of public services ad deregulation

→ Would replace dependency culture with enterprising individualism

Why are neo-liberals often labelled as conservatives?

• Their views are thought to be reactionary rather than progressive

• Have played key role in rise of New Right conservatism (e.g. Thatcher)