Human Nature, The State, Society, The Economy Flashcards
(18 cards)
How do human nature and society differ?
Human flourishing is achieved differently: negative vs. positive. They agree on freedom, equality, and individualism but differ on social equality and responsibility.
What is classical liberalism?
It includes egotistical/atomistic individualism, where individuals are seen as rational beings pursuing self-interest and self-reliance.
What are Locke’s natural rights?
Locke prescribes ‘Life, liberty, and property’ as natural rights that are god-given.
What does negative freedom emphasize?
It emphasizes freedom from state constraints to fulfill individual pleasures and desires.
What is foundational equality according to Mary Wollstonecraft?
Foundational equality means equality in the eyes of the law through equal application of the rule of law.
What do neo-liberals believe about the state?
Neo-liberals advocate for a minimal state and negative freedom, discouraging a dependency culture.
What is the view of society in neo-liberalism and classical liberalism?
They view society as built around atomistic, self-sufficient individuals responsible for themselves.
What is the role of civil society?
Civil society is the ‘realm of freedom’ that helps individuals pursue collective goals without state coercion.
How is equality of opportunity achieved?
It is achieved through free market capitalism, benefiting from social inequality to create incentives and competitiveness.
What is meritocracy?
Meritocracy is the belief in equal opportunity to develop unequal talents.
What did JS Mill contribute to modern liberalism?
He laid the foundations of developmental individualism, emphasizing intellectual self-development beyond mere pleasure pursuit.
What does TH Green say about human motivation?
He states that humans are driven by individualism and rationality, but also altruism, contributing to the common good.
What is positive freedom according to TH Green and Isiah Berlin?
Positive freedom means having the ability to achieve full potential, enabled by education and support, not just freedom from coercion.
What does John Rawls say about independence and interdependence?
He asserts that individuals achieve self-fulfillment through both personal happiness and altruistic concern for others.
What is the veil of ignorance experiment?
It demonstrates the need for positive freedom and equality of opportunity, as individuals prefer a society with healthcare and education.
What is the difference principle in Rawlsian social justice?
It suggests that individual liberty and inequality can coexist as long as the poorest are not worse off, aiming to lessen inequality.
What do neo-liberals criticize about modern liberals?
They criticize them for promoting a ‘dependency culture’ through positive liberty.
