POLS B1 Lecture #10: Political Ideologies

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on Political Ideologies, including liberalism, progressivism, and conservatism.

Ideology

A system of ideas and ideals, especially one that forms the basis of economic or political theory and policy.

Historical Liberalism

Emphasizes individual liberty, limited government, and the protection of individual rights, particularly life, liberty, and property (as influenced by John Locke).

Adam Smith's view

Argued for economic liberalism, believing that liberty allows individuals to pursue their own destiny, leading to the highest degree of opulence with peace, easy taxes, and a tolerable administration of justice.

The Profit Motive (Adam Smith)

The price system, driven by supply and demand, efficiently allocates resources, guiding businesses to produce what people want and fostering competition.

The Invisible Hand

The concept that self-regarding individuals, acting in their own interest, can collectively benefit society by responding to profit opportunities.

Laissez Faire

A policy advocating minimal government intervention in the economy, meaning 'to let it be.'

Classical Liberalism

Stresses individual rights (self-expression, conscience, property) and limited government intervention to protect those rights, adhering to the 'Harm-Principle.'

Economic Critiques of Liberalism

Some critics viewed laissez-faire as benefiting some while disadvantaging others, leading to populism that sought government intervention to aid those at a disadvantage.

Progressivism

Addresses urban blight and advocates for using government to shape a modern national identity and address social issues.

Jefferson vs. Hamilton

Reflects differing views on the role of government: Jefferson favored limited government focused on individual freedom, while Hamilton advocated for a stronger government to shape the nation.

Progressivism on Social Problems

Argues that social issues like alcoholism, crime, and illiteracy should be approached as systemic problems requiring state intervention.

Progressivism and the Modern Welfare State

Emphasizes the government's role in correcting the social environment to address poverty and social pathologies, de-emphasizing personal failings.

Progressivism's View on Pure Liberalism

Believes pure liberalism is insufficient and that the poor/oppressed need help to achieve their American dream.

The Forgotten Man (William Graham Sumner)

The individual who is burdened by policies intended to help others, often overlooked and deserving of consideration.

Conservatism

Emphasizes moral and social norms and traditional institutions to guide people toward correct choices.

Conservative Values

Prioritizes cultures over rules, respects traditions, values authority, supports religion, family, patriotism, self-sufficiency, and encourages a work ethic.

Ordered Liberty

Individual choice guided by culture