Liberalism: Core Ideas and Principles

What is individualism?

• The primacy of the individual in society over any group

• In order to cover egotistical individualism and developmental individualism

What is freedom/liberty?

• The ability and right to make decisions in your own interests based on your view of human nature

• Covers how liberals guarantee individual freedom

What is the state?

• It is necessary to avoid disorder, but ‘evil’ as it has potential to remove individual liberty

• Thus, it should be limited

• Linked to the liberal view of the economy

What is rationalism?

• The belief that humans are rational creatures, capable of reason and logic

• Covers how rationalism underpins an individual’s ability to define their own best interests and make their own moral choices

What is equality/social justice?

• The belief that individuals are of equal value

• They should be treated impartially and fairly by society

• Covers foundational and formal equality, and equality of opportunity

What is a liberal democracy?

• A democracy that balances the will of the people, as through elections, with limited government

• A respect for civil liberties in society

What is foundational equality?

• One is equal to everyone else at birth

What is formal equality?

All individuals must be treated exactly the same under law

What is equality of opportunity?

Everybody having the same opportunity to be successful

What is social contract?

• Citizens surrender certain individual freedoms and follow laws

• This is in exchange for the state’s protection of their basic rights and the maintenance of social order

What is a meritocracy?

Those that are successful are those that are the most skilful/ competent

What is mechanistic theory?

The state is an artificial, man-made machine created by individuals to serve their interests

What is tolerance?

The foundational commitment to protecting individual liberties

What is a limited government?

Power and scope of the state are restricted by law

Minimal state intervention, free market etc