Principles of liberalism

Individualism

The individual is more important than the state or any other collective body. Individuals are self-aware, capable and free to make their own decisions. Individualism is also linked to tolerance as this makes humans free from prejudice.

Freedom

This implies the ability for one to make decisions based on one’s best interest. This freedom is not absolute and can be limited by the state as law. The human need for freedom overrides the ability of the state to intervene in people’s lives.

The State

Early liberals dislike the power of the state as it overrides the freedom and individualism that builds its philosophy. The believe that the state should play a very little role in one’s life. However, the state can also be necessary as it prevents disorder and the exploitation of the poor. Modern liberals believe in an enabling state and limited government. Devolution can also take power away from a concentrated centre of the state.

Rationalism

Humans are guided by reason rather than prejudice or emotion. Humans need to be free to make decisions about their own interests. Rationalism therefore creates a progressive society as people move to develop on the society that currently exists.

Equality

Liberals believe that since human nature is equal, all humans are equal. There are many differences between liberals as to what equality means and how it takes form:

• Equality of opportunity: everyone should have the same chance to make the best of themselves within society. Humans have different ability which they should all be able to fulfil.

• Foundational equality: all people are born equal and with universal human rights which cannot be taken away from them by a higher power such as the state.

• Social inequality: some inequality is acceptable as people have different talents which need to be rewarded. A meritocracy is created based on effort and ability.

• Formal equality: people have the same legal and political rights based on equality before the law.

• State intervention: modern liberals believe that equality can only be achieved if the state gets involved to balance the wealth of society.

Liberal Democracy

Central to liberalism, liberal democracies are based on free elections, a state with limited power and a recognition of civil liberties including tolerance. A liberal democracy gives a government consent of the people, making it legitimate. Citizens can also hold the government to account, increasing the likelihood of tolerance and equality. A social contractis developed between the people and the state. However, classical liberals fear the ‘tyranny of the majority’, whereby a small group with an opinion may be ignored by the majority.