Liberalism Overview

Definition and Complexity

• Context-dependent: Liberalism’s meaning changes based on international relations vs. American politics.
• Rooted in Individualism: Core idea is protecting individual rights and freedoms.
• Democratic Systems: Belief in regular elections and separation of powers.
• Codification of Rights: Through constitutions, bills of rights, or charters.
• Economically: Linked to capitalism, promoting economic freedom and growth.

Evolution of Liberalism

Classical Liberalism

• Grounded in the ideas of John Locke, John Stuart Mill, and Adam Smith.
• Key Concepts:*
  • Government based on the will of the people.
  • Protect inalienable rights: life, liberty, and property.
  • Harm Principle (John Stuart Mill): Laws should only prevent harm to others.
• Separation of Powers: Judicial, executive, and legislative branches.
• Free Market Capitalism: Minimal government intervention in economics.
• Low Taxes and Limited Social Services: Advocated by Adam Smith.

Shift in North America

• Great Depression: Increased government involvement to stimulate the economy (e.g., New Deal by FDR).
• Social Safety Net: Programs like Social Security to assist during tough times.
• Universal Healthcare: Government spending to ensure a healthy workforce and economic stability.

Modern Liberalism

• Increased Government Involvement: To create jobs and support social justice causes.
• Debate: Extent of government action without infringing rights is a constant debate.
• Neoliberalism: 1980s pushback to reduce government involvement (e.g., Thatcher, Reagan).
• Third Way: Balance of free economics and social justice (e.g., Clinton, Blair).
• Diverse Interpretation: In North America vs. Europe.

Global Context

• Liberalism in International Relations: Promotes cooperation among states (e.g., United Nations).
• Democratic Peace Theory: Democratic states are less likely to go to war with each other.
• Pockets of liberalism operate differently compared to theoretical foundations (e.g., COVID-19 responses).

Summary

• Broad Agreement: Protection of individual rights and democratic systems.
• Classical vs. Modern Liberalism:*
  • Classical: Limited government, preventing harm to individuals.
  • Modern: More government involvement to ensure social justice and economic stability.
• Neoliberalism: Economic focus on reducing taxes and deregulation.
• Liberalism in IR: States cooperating for mutual benefit.

Conclusion

• Dominant Ideology: Remains influential but faces challenges from other models like China.
• Discussion: Open for debate on liberalism's current and future place in society.