Politics paper1- Liberalism

What is the definition of liberalism?

A core political ideology centred on the idea of individual freedom, limited government power and equal rights

What is the enlightenment?

Core ideology that challenges concepts like the divine rights of kings to establish the principles of individual liberty

Who are some of the key enlightenment thinkers?

Francis bacon(1561-1626)

Isaac newton(1643-1727)

John locke(1632-1704)

What are the 4 basic themes of the liberal ideas based on the enlightenment?

-positive view o human nature

-an explanation of knowledge

-the application of reason

-a dedication to scientific method (only believe proven things)

What did JSM argue and criticise about liberalism?

Said it was too male centred and women are equally deserving of rights and liberties as men. He criticised saying “the despotic power of husbands over wives“

What did JSM’s mentor also criticise about liberalism?

Jeremy Bentham wrote privately in favour of gay rights arguing for the decriminalisation of homosexuality

What do classical liberals believe about individualism?

Believe in egoistical individualism which sees individuals as primarily concerned with pursuing their own self interest owing little or nothing to society. Society should leave individuals free to choose their own life style and decide how best to use their talents

What does that atomistic view of classical liberals signify?

Believe that just as all matter of the universe is composed of individual atoms so too is society no more than a collection of self interested individuals

What was the invisible hand theory which was set out by Smith when it came to the economy?

Argued that there was no need for the government to attempt to manage the economy because if individuals are left to pursue their own self interests the economy would be guided by the invisible hand

What does the invisible hand mean?

The idea that when individuals pursue their own self-interest in a free market, their actions can indirectly benefit society as a whole. (Baker theory) A person opens a bakery because they want to make money.

• They compete with other bakeries.

• They try to make good food at reasonable prices.

• Customers benefit from more choice and lower prices.

• The baker benefits by making a profit.

What did John Locke argue about in justifying private property and inequality?

While God has give the earth to everyone equally, not everything should be held in common. “God gave the world to men i common, but since he gave it them for their benefit, and the greatest convenience of life they were capable to draw from cannot be supposed he meant it should always remain common and uncultivated“

What else did Locke say about the economy when it comes to the economy and taking more than you need?

It is against natural law to take more than you can use. It becomes more acceptable for hard workers to accumulate more than they can use because any excess can be traded for valuable pieces of metal which can never spoil

What did liberals believe about equality?

Didn’t believe in equality of outcome but believed in equality of opportunity. They believe d that equality of outcome isn’t possible because individuals have different talents/work ethic. In equality of opportunity everyone has the chance to succeed and outcomes reflect talent and effort

What did classical liberals believe in when it came to equality?

Believe in meritocracy where people at the top should be the most talented not just the wealthiest or best connected