Liberal Democracy Flashcards
(3 cards)
What is liberal democracy and which great thinkers are linked to it.
Liberal democracy is a representative democracy that guarantees individual rights and the rule of law. (everyone must abide by the law)
John Stuart mill warned of the tyranny of the majority, this refers to a situation in a democracy where the will of the majority oppreseee the rights, freedoms or interests of the minorities, essentially overpowering them with numbers.
John Locke states sovereignty rests with the people meaning power resides within the people and it belongs to them, not the government monarch or anyone else.
What are the classical and modern views on liberal democracy
Classical liberals are wary of mass democracy following JSM mentioning tyranny of the majority, believing masses may vote irrationally or emotionally infringing on individual rights.
Classical liberals prefer limited suffrage and institutional checks.
Modern liberals embrace democracy alongside strong legal safeguards in place to try prevent tryannny of the majority.
Contradiction analysis. Key terms and points.
**Mill proposed plural voting (less educated get on vote as they may act irrationally while educated get multiple votes to have greater influence) to give educated cirezens more influence showing early liberal elitism. **
key terms
Tyranny of the majority
Constitutionalism
Pluralism
Plural voting
Liberal democracy
Key points
Liberals support democracy but fear unrestrained majoritarianism.
Legal limits on majority power are essential.
Liberal democracy balances individual rights with collective decision making.
