Mary Wollstonecraft- Liberalsim Flashcards
(9 cards)
What did Wollstonecraft believe about human nature?
Believed all humans — including women — are rational, capable, and equal in moral worth.
Argues that women’s supposed inferiority was due to lack of education, not nature. Claims reason is the key human trait, and women should be given the same opportunities as men to develop it.
What was Wollstonecraft’s view of the state?
Supported a limited state that exists to protect individual rights — especially women’s rights.
Believed the state should provide equal legal and political rights, including education and suffrage for women. Opposed absolutism and defended constitutional government based on reason and liberty.
What did Wollstonecraft think about society and authority?
Criticised the patriarchal structure of society, which denied women a voice.
Believed true authority must be based on merit and reason, not tradition or gender. Argued that both men and women benefit when society is based on equality and rational education.
What was Wollstonecraft’s view on the economy and property?
Defended private property, but believed women should have equal economic rights — including inheritance and ownership.
Criticised the economic dependency of women and argued it led to their oppression. Thought education and economic independence were key to women’s liberation.
How did Wollstonecraft view freedom and rights?
Believed in natural rights for all individuals, regardless of gender.
Freedom meant autonomy and rational self-development, not just protection from interference. Strongly supported civil liberties, education, and legal equality for women.
What did Wollstonecraft believe about equality and class?
Argued for gender equality in rights, education, and opportunity.
Believed class inequality was less urgent than gender inequality but still supported meritocracy. Valued equality based on reason, not on wealth or social position.
What was Wollstonecraft’s attitude toward tradition?
Opposed blind obedience to tradition, especially patriarchal customs.
Supported social reform through reason and education, especially to liberate women. Saw tradition as a barrier to enlightenment and progress.
What did Wollstonecraft believe about power and authority?
Believed legitimate authority must be earned through reason and justice, not inherited or based on gender.
Opposed arbitrary power — whether from monarchs or men in families. Saw education as a way to empower individuals and challenge unfair authority.
