B) Historic and contemporary expressions of individualism & collectivism

Individualism

• Characteristed by freedom of the individual, economic freedom and private property.

• A key value of liberalism because personal freedoms and rights are protected.

• Most individualistic ideologies stress the importance of personal autonomy and self-reliance.

Collectivisim

• Collective societies limit the freedom of individuals for the good of society.

• Communism, democratic socialism, cooperatives, and some religious communities.

• The central idea of collectivism is that people work together and cooperate to achieve a common goal and to protect the common good, This communal sharing leads to more economic equality.

• A collective economy aims to reduce economic inequalities that are present in individualistic economies.

Liberal Party (Grits)

Liberals support socially liberal policies (progressivism): affirmative action, political correctness, advocating for marginalized groups (collective good), and an increase in spending on social programs - which would be paid for by increasing taxes. They are a centrist party or moderates and are located in the middle of the spectrum.

Leader: Justin Trudeau

Conservative Party (Tories)

The party usually supports lower taxes, laissez-faire economics, being fiscally conservative (cautious on how they spend tax revenue), advocating for military spending and endorsing adequate law enforcement. They are a right-wing traditional party who favours slow gradual social progress.

Leader: Pierre Poilievre

NDP (New Democratic Party)

A left-wing political party who also favour increases taxation (including corporate tax) to generate revenue for a variety of social welfare programs to provide a safety net for all Candians. (Ex. universal healthcare, dental care programs, universal basic income).

Leader: Jagmeet Singh

The Bloc Quebecois

Based in Quebec and promotes Quebec’s regional interests in Parliament by advocating increased sovereignty.

Leader: Yves-Francois Blanchet

Green Party

Primarily concerned with environmental causes but without overburdening the nation’s resources.

Co-leaders: Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pedneault