Liberalism

Human Nature

A collection of inherent qualities essential to the individual.

Liberty

Classical liberals believe that liberty consists in each person being left alone, free from intrusion and able to act in whichever way they may wish. Modern liberals prefer a more ‘positive’ notion of liberty, defined as the ability to be one’s own master, to be autonomous.

Natural Rights

God given rights that are essential to human beings and are therefore inalienable.

Individualism

The belief in the prime significance of the individual over any grouping or collective body.

Equality

People have equal moral value. This implies political and legal equality as well as equality of opportunity.

Tolerance

A readiness to accept people thinking, speaking and acting in ways which we disagree with.

Classical Liberalism

They believe in:

Egoistical individualism – The belief in the prime significance of the individual leads to an emphasis on self-interestedness and self-reliance.

Negative freedom – The lack of external limitations on the individual, permitting freedom of choice.

Minimal state – The state is a necessary evil that should play the role of the night-watchman.

Civil society – An area of autonomous associations and groups, created by private citizens and enjoying independence from the state. Civil society includes businesses, clubs, churches and so on.

Modern Liberalism

Individuality – Self-fulfilment gained through the realisation of an individual’s unique identity or qualities.

Positive freedom - Self-mastery or self-realisation. The achievement of autonomy and the development of capacities.

Social liberalism - Provision of welfare support for its citizens by overcoming poverty, disease and ignorance.

Economic management - Governments should influence the level of aggregate demand.