Libralism Beliefs Summary

What is the classical liberals belief on human nature?

They have an optimistic view of human nature, believing individuals are rational, self-interested, and capable of making responsible decisions without needing strong state control.

What is the modern liberals belief on human nature?

They retain faith in rationality and individualism but acknowledge that people may need support to achieve their potential in unequal social and economic conditions.

What is the feminist liberals belief on human nature?

They believe men and women are equally rational and capable, and that gender differences are largely the result of social conditioning rather than biology.

What is the classical liberals belief on the state?

Classical liberals believe in a minimal state that exists primarily to protect individual liberty and natural rights (life, liberty and property)

What is the modern liberals belief on the state?

Modern liberals support an enabling state that actively intervenes to ensure equality of opportunity, social justice, and the protection of individual freedoms through welfare and education.

What is the feminist liberals belief on the state?

The state should guarantee formal equality through legal and political reform (e.g. anti-discrimination laws, equal pay, voting rights), without fundamentally changing liberal democratic structures.

What is the classical liberals belief on the economy?

Support a laissez-faire capitalist economy, arguing that free markets and competition ensure prosperity, efficiency, and individual freedom.

What is the modern liberals belief on the economy?

Favour a regulated capitalist economy, with the state correcting market failures and reducing inequality through progressive taxation and welfare policies.

What is the femenist liberals belief on the economy?

Liberal feminists support equal access to economic opportunities, advocating for reforms like workplace equality, maternity rights, and closing the gender pay gap—within a capitalist framework.

What is the classical liberals belief on society?

A collection of autonomous individuals who should be free to pursue their own interests with minimal interference, relying on voluntary associations rather than state intervention.

What is the modern liberals belief on society?

Society should promote fairness and social inclusion, recognising that freedom can only be meaningful when individuals have the resources and support needed to flourish.

What is the femenist liberals belief on society?

Society is shaped by patriarchal norms that restrict women’s freedom, and call for changes in social attitudes and institutions (e.g. education, media) to promote gender equality.