Classical Liberalism Flashcards

Study Notes

Classical Liberalism Overview

Classical liberalism emphasizes individual liberties and rights, advocating for a government that is accountable to the people.

John Locke

Creator of liberalism; emphasized natural rights: life, liberty, and property.
Advocated for the social contract; believed government should operate with the consent of the governed.
Argued against absolutism and divine right of kings, suggesting that power derives from the people.
Authored "Two Treatises of Government," promoting the idea of revolution against tyrannical rule.

Montesquieu

Influential classical liberal thinker who introduced the concept of separation of powers in governance.
Proposed a balanced government divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.
Supported checks and balances to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful.
Advocated for civic engagement and awareness of laws among citizens.

Thomas Jefferson

Founding Father of the United States, principal author of the Declaration of Independence.
Served as the third President, significant advocate for individual liberties and democracy.

Adam Smith

Recognized as the Father of Capitalism; promoted laissez-faire economics and individual freedom in market practices.
Suggested that individuals acting in their self-interest ultimately benefit society.
Criticized mercantilism and argued for a free market economy, notably in "The Wealth of Nations."
Developed the theory of the invisible hand, asserting that markets regulate themselves with minimal government intervention.

Agricultural Revolution

Marked improvements in farming methods, leading to increased population and demand for goods.

The Renaissance

Described as a "rebirth" emphasizing education, art, and critical thinking in society.

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement from the 1650s to the 1780s focused on reason and individualism, laying the groundwork for liberalism.

Industrial Revolution

An economic movement that contributed to the development of liberal thought.

Absolute Monarchy

A form of government where the monarch possesses unrestricted power over the state and its citizens.

Authoritarianism

Characterized by indefinite political rule, often in a single-party system; transitions to democracy referred to as democratization.

Capitalism

An economic system where trade and industry are primarily privately owned, focused on profit generation.

Charter of Rights and Freedoms

A bill of rights entrenched in Canada's Constitution, established as part of the Constitution Act, 1982.

Core Values of Classical Liberalism

Emphasizes liberty, individualism, skepticism about power, rule of law, civil society, spontaneous order, free markets, toleration, peace, and limited government.

Collective Norms

Cultural rules that dictate appropriate behavior within a society.

Collectivism

Focuses on the needs of the group over individual interests in social organization.

Description

Dive into the foundational concepts of classical liberalism through these flashcards! Explore the ideas of key figures like John Locke, including natural rights, the social contract, and the importance of rational thought in governance. Perfect for anyone looking to understand the roots of liberal political theory.

Classical Liberalism Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

Who is considered the creator of liberalism?

What did John Locke believe regarding government?

Which concept is Montesquieu known for in his political theory?

Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the ______.

What is Adam Smith known as?

John Locke supported the divine right of kings.

What does the term 'Enlightenment' refer to?

What economic system is characterized by private ownership and profit generation?

The ______ is a bill of rights entrenched in the Constitution of Canada.

Which of the following is NOT one of the core values of classical liberalism?

What does the term 'Collectivism' refer to?