Classical Liberalism
- Def: A political belief in which primary emphasis is placed on securing the freedom of the individual by limiting the power of the state. In its economic form, it advocates a respect for private property and free markets.
- As a political belief, its origins can be traced back to both the Ancient Greeks and Ancient Hebrews.
- But in its modern form, it begins on the one hand with the urban culture of Italy and the Northern European city-states and on the other with the Reformation, particularly with those dissenting sects which found themselves in opposition to the government.
- It is given shape during the Puritan Revolution in England, especially among the Diggers and Levelers.
- The first to give the modern view philosophical expression was John Locke, who wrote during the Glorious Revolution in England.
- Classical Liberalism was the ideology of the moderate, constitutional monarch phase of the French Revolution, which promoted limited government and was based on principles of natural law.
- Classical Liberalism should not be confused with democracy. One can be a liberal and yet be opposed to democracy.
- Classical Liberalism should also not be confused with modern, American liberalism, which is a mild variation of socialism.
© 2003 by David Koeller. All rights reserved.
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