Liberalism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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liberalism
[ˈlɪb(ə)rəˌlɪz(ə)m ]
Definition
political philosophy
Liberalism is a political and moral philosophy based on liberty, consent of the governed, and equality before the law. It emphasizes individual rights, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, free markets, civil rights, democratic societies, and the rule of law.
Synonyms
democracy, individualism, progressivism.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| liberalism |
Liberalism refers to a political and economic philosophy that emphasizes individual freedoms, representative democracy, and the protection of civil liberties. It is often discussed in the context of political theory and governance.
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| progressivism |
Progressivism is a political philosophy that supports social reform, advocating for change that improves the human condition by addressing issues such as inequality, education, and healthcare. It is often discussed in the context of social policies and political movements.
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| individualism |
Individualism emphasizes the moral worth of the individual and the importance of individual rights and independence. It is often used in the context of social philosophy and personal conduct, highlighting the value of personal autonomy.
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| democracy |
Democracy refers to a system of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives. It is often used when discussing political systems, governance, and the rights of citizens.
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Examples of usage
- Many Western democracies are founded on the principles of liberalism.
- Liberalism promotes the idea of limited government intervention in the economy.
- Freedom of speech is a key tenet of liberalism.
- Liberalism advocates for equal opportunities for all individuals.
- The liberal tradition has roots in the Enlightenment period.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'liberalism' emerged in the early 19th century, rooted in Enlightenment ideas that emphasized reason, individualism, and liberty.
- The French Revolution (1789) was pivotal in spreading liberal ideas, promoting democracy against monarchy and feudalism.
- In the 20th century, liberalism evolved, addressing issues like social justice and economic equality, particularly during the Progressive Era.
Political Science
- Liberalism supports democracy, advocating for representative government and adherence to the rule of law.
- It emphasizes civil liberties, including freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as essential for personal autonomy.
- Different strands exist in liberalism, such as classical liberalism, which focuses on limited government, and social liberalism, which promotes social welfare.
Cultural Impact
- Throughout history, liberalism has influenced social movements, including civil rights struggles advocating for racial, gender, and LGBTQ+ equality.
- Many well-known literary figures, such as John Stuart Mill, championed liberal ideas, significantly impacting philosophy and social theory.
- Modern digital communication and the internet have amplified liberal ideas, allowing for broader discourse and advocacy on social issues.
Economics
- Liberalism is often associated with free-market economics, supporting the idea that individual entrepreneurship drives prosperity and innovation.
- Key thinkers like Adam Smith promoted the notion of the 'invisible hand,' suggesting that individual pursuits ultimately benefit society as a whole.
- Some critics argue that unregulated markets can lead to inequality, prompting calls for more balanced approaches in economic policy.
Psychology
- Research in psychology links liberal attitudes to openness to experience, suggesting that those who identify with liberalism may embrace new ideas and diversity.
- Studies indicate that liberal individuals are often more empathetic towards others and supportive of social change.
- The relationship between political ideology and personality traits continues to be an area of interest in understanding societal trends and behaviors.
Origin of 'liberalism'
The term 'liberalism' has its roots in the Latin word 'liberalis', meaning 'pertaining to a free person'. The concept of liberalism emerged in the 17th century, with thinkers like John Locke and Adam Smith contributing to its development. Liberalism gained prominence during the Enlightenment period in Europe and has since become a foundational ideology for many democratic societies around the world.
See also: liberality, liberalization, liberally.