Ideological Movements in Society

Liberals and Their Beliefs

• Wanted to separate religion from the state, and prevent the dominance of one religion over others
• Argued for a constitutional government that placed limits on the power of rulers and protected individual rights

Radicals and Their Beliefs

• Wanted a more representative government, where the elected representatives would be accountable to the people

Voting Rights and Limitations

• Liberals did not believe in universal adult franchise, and did not think that all citizens should have the right to vote

Conservatives and Their Beliefs

• Opposed to the idea of democracy and the concept of equal rights for all citizens
• Wanted to maintain the privileges of great landowners and wealthy factory owners

Safeguarding Individual Rights

• Liberals wanted to safeguard the rights of individuals against governments

Government by Majority

• Radicals supported the idea of government based on the majority of a country's population

Opposing Radical and Liberal Ideas

• Conservatives were opposed to both radicals and liberals after the French Revolution, as they feared the loss of power and privilege

Limitations on Voting Rights

• Conservatives did not believe in universal adult franchise and the right of every citizen to vote

Test your knowledge on the ideological movements of liberals, radicals, and conservatives and their impact on society. Learn about their beliefs and actions to change the societal norms and political systems.