To what extent do liberals agree in their views on democracy? (24)

AGREE Advocate for democracy as it ensures government by consent.

Classical Liberals

John Locke - social contract theory suggested that individuals form societies and goes through an implicit agreement to ensure protection of their natural democratic rights.

Modern Liberals

John Rawls -participation is necessary to ensure fairness

AGREE All individuals are entitiled to equal rights.

Classical Liberals

Mary Wollstonecraft - criticised 18th century society that denied women formal equality and freedom (e.g. women couldn't vote). Women should have the same rights as men.

Modern Liberals

Betty Friedan - played a role in establishing the National Organisation for women which advocates for legal and societal changes to achieve gender equality including equal democratic participation.

Democratic systems must treat individuals equally by granting them pollical rights

DISAGREE How much power the state should have under democracy.

Classical Liberals - state should act as a 'night watchman' to protect individual rights (life, liberty, property)

Adam Smith - the invisible hand would guide the economy and lead to prosperity

Modern Liberals

John Rawls - state should address inequality through fair access to resources. The enabling state provides education, healthcare etc funded through progressive taxation. In the UK these beliefs were carried out in the Beveridge report which laid the foundations for the welfare state which included the NHS.

conclusion

conclusion