LIBERALISM

LIBERALISM
The term “Liberalism”
comes from the Latin
word “liberalis” which
means “of freedom”.
LIBERALISM AS A SYSTEM OF
THOUGHT
• Coherent and Systematic theory
• Four inter-related components:
 Epistemology
 Human Nature
 Community
 Politics
 LIBERAL EPISTEMOLOGY
• Rational: integrative, rule-governed thinking
• Mechanism of thought is the same for all
• Through REFLECTION have access to world
– World is also rule-governed and rational
– Parallels our way of thinking
• Capacity to ABSTRACT
– Can apply what we know to other situations
• Knowledge can change what people are
• Our behavior reflects our epistemology
 HUMAN NATURE
• People are basically good with good intentions
• Fundamentally Rational Individuals
• Have passions and desires but, through reason,
can control and direct actions
• Are primarily motivated by self-interest
• Inherently Competitive
• Emphasis on Individual Liberty and Rights
COMMUNITY
• Fundamentally individual
• Concerned with others to extent influence us
• For example: State of Nature
• The state of nature, for Rousseau, is a morally
neutral and peaceful condition in which (mainly)
solitary individuals act according to their
basic urges (for instance, hunger) as well as
their natural desire for self-preservation.
 POLITICS
• Produced by people who reason independently and
equally
• Community is not much of a concern
• Need to interact, so form state to regulate exchange;
State is a Mediator
• Locke: limited government, protect property
• Emphasis on fairness and equality