Political philosophyLesson 1 of 1 in the course Political Ideology

Democratic Liberalism: Center-Right Fusionism and Center-Left Principles

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 4 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Contemporary democratic liberalism became a predominant political ideology across many democratic societies during the twentieth century. This lesson introduces its central commitments and explains how representative institutions and checks on power are intended to protect both democratic government and individual rights.

Democratic liberalism combines classical liberalism’s support for capitalism and individual rights with a strong commitment to equal treatment and democratic decision-making through elected representatives. It is an ideology, not the name of a single political party. Political parties in different countries may express democratic liberal ideas in different ways.

All flashcards

What is contemporary democratic liberalism?
An ideology combining capitalism and individual rights with equal treatment and representative democratic decision-making.
What is counter-majoritarian power?
The ability of an institution, especially a court, to protect rights despite opposition from a numerical majority.
How does representative democracy differ from direct democracy?
In representative democracy, citizens elect decision-makers; in direct democracy, the public decides political questions itself.
What is political fusionism in the center right?
A combination of moderate economic libertarianism and moderate social conservatism.
What is offshoring?
Moving a company's production to another country, often to reduce costs.

Quiz questions

  1. Which combination best describes political fusionism in the center right?Answer: Moderate economic libertarianism and moderate social conservatism.
  2. What does originalism propose when interpreting a constitution?Answer: Interpret its provisions in light of their meaning when adopted.
  3. According to the harm principle, when should personal autonomy generally be broadened?Answer: When doing so does not harm another person.
  4. How does the center left generally differ from the center right on economic inequality?Answer: It supports a more active government role in reducing poverty and inequality.
  5. Which commitments do the center left and center right generally share?Answer: Representative democracy, individual rights, and a capitalist economy.

Based on Introduction to Political Science by Mark Carl Rom, Masaki Hidaka, Rachel Bzostek Walker (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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