Political Ideologies
Definition
Three Elements
Classical Liberalism
L. liber- "free"
The individual has natural (since born you already have it) and inalienable (no one can take it away) rights. For liberals, people are naturally rational and their activities are based on a notion of self-interest.
The society is nothing more than the sum of all individuals and it has no right to restrict human freedom.
Political equality, meaning equality before the law, and equal opportunities are valued.
"ideal society" - Everyone is politically equal with equal opportunities.
The government's role is very minimal. It just has to make sure that the rights of citizens are protected. That is why a well-functioning judiciary is essential.
Conservatism
conservare- "to preserve"
Individuals are inherently unequal in intelligence, skills and status. For them, people are not completely rational and the main basis of decisions are in traditional culture, social hierarchy and moral values.
The society is organic--a social organism that is composed of interdependent parts. It's important that everyone performs his or her part accordingly in order to maintain social order and stability.
Inequality is natural and desirable.
"ideal society" - Everyone does his or her part. A problem arises whenever social change is pushed because of individualism.
The government's role is big when it comes to culture, but small when it comes to the economy. The rich are assumed to perform "noblesse oblige" or obligation of the nobility to help the poor people.
Socialism
There are two types of socialism based on how they obtain their goals