Human nature society State Economy
classical Egotistic individualism - individual will Freedom is atomistic- Freedom was connected to law, Locke asserted that Laissez-faire capitalism - capital
seek to maximise their own value, this therefore the the role of gov was connected, Locke argued ‘no law, economy relies solely on ‘invisible
requires no intervention from the sate, individual interest no liberties. hand’ to guide trade and markets,
society is therefore atomistic- a ensures their is no The state would practice limited government so the and advocates for no government, no
collection of autonomous individuals ‘common good’, individual could enjoy maximum freedom but is customs duties , tariffs and free trade
Locke and mill perceived individuals negative freedom- nessacray. between all nations. Fundamental
as capable of intellectually informed freedom is an Mill provides a necessity for the states involvement belief in the ‘right to property’ leads
ideas but self interested and absence of constrain, in protecting life, liberty and property liberals to support private property
indifferent from each other. freedom from They believe it is a necessary evil, as they see it is such as a capitalist system.
government needed to protect other people's rights. As if all Capitalism is often referred to as
interference. people were self-seeking thus could harm others' economic liberalism:
‘The drunk in the freedoms, and it is a priority to protect the freedoms 1. It protects private property
gutter is in his of an individual. They argue for limited government, 2. It supports individualism
rightful place’ with checks and balances on the exercise of power 3. It supports an ultimately positive
Would seek harmony as a view of human progress through
means to improve their own rationalism
Democratic and should enable society to take place with the
means. Locke argued that in consent of the people. It is the night watchman – their to protect
the state of nature their and ensure everything is running not infringed Aims to create individual wealth
would arise a natural society,
a meritocracy, the people at
the top would be the best Locke – negative liberty, free to do anything you chose as ling as
suited – those who are no harm to others is caused. Maximise freedom.
wealthy and rise to the top
are deserving not born into
it.
Opposed tyranny of the
majority
Modern for modern liberals, humans aren’t entirely their is an organic Freedom can be supported by the state- Keynesian economics – Keynes argued
selfish as they are also altruistic and have a society, recognises The argument for an enabling state and a larger state economy could be better managed by
concern for the welfare of others. This view can ‘public interest’, role would ensure individual chances were not government intervention-
be seen clearest in the work of John Rawls who positive freedom- the determined by birth status. Too to help fulfil potentials. governments could manage
argued humans feel sympathy for those with sate plays a role in The state is now an ally against the limitations set by economies by influencing the
fewer opportunities than themselves so the assisting individuals social and economic pressures. aggregate demand - controlled by
more well-off wouldn’t object to helping the to achieve what they Would want policing- for protection of sate and gov spending and taxation.
poor. This is in strong contradiction to classical want. individuals, leading to more benefits. And protection of
‘Too much freedom the environment, a collective interest.
liberals’ view therefore there is a significant Progressive taxation- looking at
and freedom starves’ Developmental individualism - individual should be
disagreement on the individuals income and wealth,
assisted in maximising value by state intervention,
fundamental belief of the levels of selfishness. support others and support the state.
the state must provide a ‘hand up’, this takes into
‘developmental individualism’ Viel of ignorance The most should contribute most.
account that not everyone is equal- societal factors
believing the state should play a more Want to accept all- all
play a role. Equality of opportunity.
involved role, to make society equal are equal Believe that free market further
favoured radical change green argued that this did
Innate characteristics- things that Equal opportunity for disadvantages the poorest in society.
not recognise that freedom could be threatened by
make up identity- people couldn’t all Rawls and difference
social and material disadvantage. Welfare support –
change- ethnicity, gender, sexual principle- prioritise
education.
orientation and disability, represented most disadvantaged
those most disadvantaged. Positively discriminate -
positive view of human nature and ‘affirmative a chain’ State should make sure people are protected and
faith in human potential. should enforce foundational equality – education,
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 phoebellewellynbuz. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for £6.49. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
