Liberalism: Key Thinkers

This lesson examines the key thinkers of liberalism as specified by the Edexcel A-Level Politics syllabus: Locke, Mill, Rawls, Wollstonecraft, and Friedan.

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John Locke (1632-1704)

Key Ideas

Natural Rights: Individuals possess inherent rights to life, liberty, and property that exist independently of government.

Locke: "The great and chief end of men uniting into commonwealths and putting themselves under government is the preservation of their property."

Social Contract: In the state of nature, rights are insecure. Individuals voluntarily create government through a social contract to protect their rights. If government fails, the people may revolt.

Limited Government: The state's power is restricted to protecting natural rights.

Toleration: In A Letter Concerning Toleration (1689), Locke argued for religious toleration and the separation of church and state, though he excluded Catholics and atheists.

Significance

Locke's ideas influenced the American Declaration of Independence, the US Constitution, and liberal democracy worldwide. He is the foundational classical liberal thinker.

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Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797)

Key Ideas

Reason and Education for Women: Women are rational beings equal to men. If women appear less rational, it is because they are denied education — not because of natural inferiority.