PS 100 B.2. Liberal Democracy

What is the definition of political ideology?

The beliefs and practices that guide political actors in political communities 

What is the definition of liberal democracy?

A constitutional government characterized by popular rule, protection of basic rights, and political and economic competition

What are the main ideas of classic liberalism?

1. Limits on government (limited government)

2. Government authority is not absolute and arbitrary

3. Constitutionalism 

4. Protection of basic individual rights 

5. Free choice in politics & the marketplace 

What have been historically the main ideas about democratic governance and how are they distinct from the ideas of classic liberalism?

1. Popular Sovereignty

2. Majority Rule

3. Rule of Law

4. Protection of minority rights

5. Free and fair elections

6. Distinct from classic liberalism, democratic governance focuses primarily on the structure and process of government, while classic liberalism emphasizes the limited role of government, individual liberty, and economic freedom.

What are the main features of liberal democracy in the United States?

1. Constitutional Framework

2. Separation of powers

3. Rule of Law

4. Protection of individual rights

5. Competitive Elections

6. Pluralism

7. Civic Participation

8. Checks and Balances

9. Federalism

10. Free market capitalism

What are the main ideas of modern American Liberals? (As opposed to classic liberals)

1. Willing to employ government power for political, social & economic ends

2. Government responsible to help disadvantaged societal groups

3. Open to big and sudden changes in society

4. Progressive values; more secular

What are the main ideas of modern American Conservatives?

1. Market mechanism serves political, social & economic ends

2. Government guarantees equality of opportunity for disadvantaged individuals

3. Preference for slow societal change or maintenance of status quo

4. Traditional & religious values

What are the main differences between modern American Conservatives and Liberals?

1. Government role

2. Economic Policy

3. Social issues

4. Health Care

5. Climate Change

6. Immigration

7. Foreign Policy

8. Criminal Justice

How do the ideas of modern American Liberals and Conservatives relate to the ideas of classic liberalism?

Both main US political parties accept principles of liberal democracy

What is the relationship between nationalism and the establishment of liberal democracy?

Nationalism defined the “demos” (the people) in democracy

What is the relationship between capitalism and the establishment of liberal democracy?

1. Liberal democracy developed alongside capitalism 

2. Liberal democracy & capitalism agree on need for limits on government activity 

What is the main criticism of American democracy by Frederick Douglass in his speech about the meaning of the 4th of July?

People of the time failing the ideas of liberal democracy