Liberalism: Key terminology

Foundational equality

Rights that all humans have by virtue of being born which cannot be taken away.

Formal equality

The idea that all individuals have the same legal and political rights in society.

Equality of opportunity

The idea that all individuals should have equal chances in life to rise and fall.

Social contract

The idea that the state/society is set up with agreement from the people to respect its laws which serve to protect them.

Meritocracy

A society organised on the basis that success is based on ability and hard work.

Mechanistic theory

The idea that the state was created by ‘man’ to serve the people and act in their interests.

Tolerance

A willingness to respect values, customs and beliefs with which one disagrees.

Limited government

The role of government is limited by checks and balances, and a separation of powers because of the corrupting nature of power.

Egoistical individualism

The idea that individual freedom is associated with self-interest and self-reliance.

Developmental individualism

The idea that individual freedom is linked to human flourishing.

Negative freedom

The absence of external constraints in society as well as no interference in the private sphere.

Positive freedom

The idea that freedom is about personal fulfilment and realisation of potential.

Laissez-faire capitalism

economic system, organised by the market, where goods are produced for exchange and profit, and wealth is privately owned.

Keynesianism

An economic system that requires government involvement to stimulate the economy to achieve full employment and price stability.

Harm principle

The idea that individuals should be free to do anything except harm other individuals.

Minimal state

The idea that the role of the state must be restricted in order to preserve individual liberty.

Enabling state

A larger state that helps individuals to achieve their potential and be free.