10.1 Core Ideas - Libertarianism Flashcards
What does libertarianism emphasise?
Negative freedom
What economist did traditional conservative Edmund Burke support?
Adam Smith, the champion of laissez-faire economics
When did income tax become a permanent feature in the UK?
1842
When did income tax become a permanent feature in the US?
In 1913 with the 16th Amendment
What term is Ayn Rand closely associated with?
‘Atomistic individualism’
What is ‘atomistic individualism’?
Autonomous individuals seek rationalised self-fulfilment
How does Ayn Rand view society?
She believes that society does not exist and that we are a loose collection of independent beings
What do neo-liberals reject?
Pessimistic human imperfection
What did Nozick and Rand reject? (not human imperfection)
Empricism
What type of individualism do neo-liberals advocate?
Egotistical individualism
Why do neo-liberals disagree with the principle of noblesse oblige?
It restricts individuals’ development as it limits choice and prevents them from learning from their mistakes
What does neo-liberalism challenge the idea of, which traditional conservatives believe in?
Traditional conservative hierarchies and the legitimacy of the state with all of its organic traditions
What do neo-liberals believe about society?
It is atomistic and should be organised on meritocratic terms
What is a Robert Nozick quote about individuals?
‘There are only individual people, different individual people, with their own lives’
What do neo-liberals see the role of the state as?
They have the role of a nightwatchman - overseeing the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals from criminals and foreign invaders
