Your Politics Guide

• Rationality: Liberals believe humans are rational beings, able to make decisions and solve problems through reason.
• Individualism: Each person is unique and should be free to pursue their own goals.
• Self Improvement: People are capable of progress through personal development, especially with education.
• Moral Equality: All individuals have equal moral worth therefore everyone must be treated with respect.
• Autonomy: Humans should be free to make choices about their own lives, so long as they do not harm others. This is also known as the harm principle A concept developed by John Stuart Mill stating that individuals should be free to act however they wish unless their actions cause harm to others. .
• Tolerance: Individuals must be tolerant of different beliefs and lifestyles. Everyone is entitled to their own views and this should be protected by law.

• Optimistic View: Classical liberals are optimistic about human nature, believing people are naturally rational. Whilst they are aware that individuals act in their own self-interest, they believe that individuals have the capacity to engage in cooperation.
• Limited State: Because individuals can govern themselves, the state should only intervene to protect rights.
• Key Thinkers: John Locke, Adam Smith.

• Potential for Progress: Modern liberals emphasise the capacity for self-improvement, but recognise that there are socioeconomic barriers that can limit freedom.
• Social Responsibility: Society should help individuals reach their potential. This can be done through education, welfare, and support for the disadvantaged.
• Key Thinkers: John Stuart Mill (Harm Principle), John Rawls.

Liberals see humans as rational. Classical liberals stress that, due to this, there must be limited state intervention. Modern liberals highlight the need for social support to help everyone fulfil their potential.