Enlightenemnt, Individualism and strands. Flashcards
(6 cards)
what did liberalism originate from and how was the prior historical system challenged (feudalism)
Liberalism originated from the enlightenment, prior was feudalism which was challenged due to the Black Death meaning no need for episcopal structure (hierarchy)
What was challenged in the enlightenment and what was emphasised
the divine rights of kings was challenged and so was feudalism, thinkers emphasised rationalism, liberty and progress, trusting indiv. To act rationally when given freedom
Individualism and which enlightened thinker advocated
Liberals stress the importance of the individual over the claims of any social group of collective body, **Immanuel Kant (enlightenment thinker) argued all indiv. Are unique but have equal worth **
what is egotistical individualism, which stand of liberalism advocates it and which great thinker agrees with it (with quotation)
Classical liberals associated with egotistical individualism, it views people as self interested and rational to make their own decisions, ei also agrees that freedom is best secured with minimal state intervention. KT- John lock ‘being all equal and independent and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty or possessions. being all equal, locked is asserting foundational equality, no divine hierarchy and everyone has individual sovereignty, no one ought… reflects johns social contract theory. Life… advocated for natural rights.
What’s is developmental indivualism, what strand does it link to and who advocated it.
Modern liberals agree with the view of developmental individualism, it emphasises that freedom is linked to the desire to create a society in which everyone can grow and flourish,with the state intervening to help the less fortunate to achieve their potential. JSM agrees with this
‘The worth of a state in the long run is the worth of the individuals composing it’ worth of the state refers to moral and intellectual elements which are dictated by the society not the rulers, long run is a typical modern liberal view, progressing over time with gradual reform. Worth of indiv, state is only as strong as its citizens.
contradiction and analysis on topic one individualism and strands. And key terms and points
Classical liberals believe too much state support undermines personal responsibility, modern argue true liberty requires a supportive structure to an extent. Classical believe freedom is freedom without interference, modern believe freedom is the freedom to achieve.
Key points
Individualism meanings vary depending on liberal view, classical liberalists advocate self reliance, modern liberals advocate empowerment
Key terms
egotistical individualism
developmental individualism
enabling state
minimal state
rationalism
