To what extent can liberalism be reconciled to collectivism?
Introduction
Define liberalism and the terms of the question – individualism and collectivism
Modern liberals have abandoned individualism – support for enabling state, Keynesian economics.
However classical liberals criticize this by saying it creates a dependency culture and limits
economic freedom.
Overall it reconciles to collectivism to a small degree but only works as a means to an end.
Developmental Belief in positive Modern liberals favor a
individualism freedom “middle way”
Can liberalism be Modern liberals believe Belief in positive Modern liberals still
reconciled to in developmental freedom – idea that favor an extent of
collectivism? individualism (the idea humans have potential ‘middle-way’ in the
that people have a desire to reach their goals and economy, with
Yes or no to create a flourishing can develop their talents Keynesian economics
society where everyone to achieve fulfilment – stimulating demand
can succeed) modern liberals argue through gov
this requires state intervention in the
Mill did not just want to intervention in the form economy.
liberate individuals as of an “enabling state”,
they were at present which helps people find This is also emphasized
and instead what they themselves – this idea of by the need for a fair
could become – a the state intervening society where
concept he termed promotes collective inequalities are
“individuality” and efforts rather than the reduced, as stressed by
which has since been individual being left
referred to as alone. John Rawls’ Theory of
developmental Justice. Which set out to
individualism. show that retribution of
wealth and power and
He famously stated, it that it was not a
was “better to be “surrender to socialism”
socrates dissatisfied but perfectly consistent
than a pig satisfied”, with liberal principles
while any support for (Thus, need for reforms
liberty had to be which help the
“grounded on the collective groups)
permanent interests of
man as a progressive
being”
Suggests human desire
is a collective goal and
the state must intervene
to enhance this as well
through welfare
programs (in order to
ensure everyone has
equal opportunity to
achieve these collective
goals.
T.H Green – human
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller dilakara1. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for £2.99. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
