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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
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1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
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Politics
10 Dec 2025
1,567
1 page
Classical and Modern Liberalism: A Comparative Analysis of Key Principles
This document provides an in-depth comparison of classical... Show more
Classical and modern liberalism share fundamental views on human nature but diverge on the extent of individualism and social responsibility.
Both classical and modern liberalism a level Politics view humans as rational individuals capable of making their own decisions based on self-interest. They promote equality of opportunity and tolerance, restricting individual freedom only when it threatens the freedom of others.
Highlight Both strands of liberalism hold a positive view of human nature and emphasize the importance of individual rationality.
Classical liberals, such as John Locke, believe that humans are guided by self-interest but also show concern for others. Mary Wollstonecraft argued that both men and women are capable of rational thought, challenging gender-based discrimination.
Quote "Locke-humans guided by self-interest but concerned for others"
Modern liberals, while agreeing with the basic tenets of individual rationality, recognize the need for social justice awareness and favor some state intervention. John Rawls, a prominent modern liberal thinker, posited that humans can be selfish but are also sympathetic to the less fortunate.
Definition Foundational equality refers to the liberal belief that all people are born equal and entitled to the same legal and political rights.
The key difference between classical and modern liberalism in their view of human nature lies in the concept of individualism. Classical liberals promote egotistical individualism, emphasizing self-reliance and personal responsibility. In contrast, modern liberals favor developmental individualism, recognizing the need for societal support to help individuals reach their full potential.
Vocabulary Meritocracy is a system where advancement is based on individual ability and hard work, a concept valued by both classical and modern liberals.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the evolution of Modern Liberalism, focusing on key thinkers like T.H. Green and J.S. Mill. This summary delves into the contrasts between Classical and Modern Liberalism, highlighting concepts such as positive freedom, individuality, and the role of the state in addressing social inequalities. Ideal for students studying political ideologies and their historical context.
PoliticsExplore the foundational principles of Liberalism, focusing on the Social Contract, limited government, and constitutionalism. This study note delves into key concepts such as political legitimacy, separation of powers, and checks and balances, essential for understanding the Liberal State. Ideal for A Level Politics students preparing for exams.
CitizenshipExplore the key concepts of liberalism, including the role of the state, individual freedoms, and economic theories. This summary covers classical and modern liberal perspectives, the social contract, and the necessity of state intervention for equality of opportunity. Ideal for students studying political ideologies and their implications on society and the economy.
PoliticsExplore the contrasting ideologies of Realism and Liberalism in global politics. This summary delves into their core beliefs, including human nature, state behavior, and the role of international cooperation. Ideal for A-Level Politics students seeking to understand these fundamental political theories.
PoliticsExplore the evolution of Modern Liberalism, focusing on key thinkers like T.H. Green and John Stuart Mill. This summary covers the shift from classical to modern liberal thought, emphasizing concepts such as positive freedom, individuality, and the role of the state in addressing social inequalities. Ideal for A Level Government and Politics students preparing for exams.
CitizenshipExplore the core principles of Liberalism, focusing on justice, meritocracy, and equality of opportunity. This study note delves into the philosophical underpinnings of liberal thought, including foundational and formal equality, the role of rationalism, and the debates between classical and modern liberal perspectives. Ideal for A Level Politics students studying core ideologies.
PoliticsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Classical and Modern Liberalism: A Comparative Analysis of Key Principles
This document provides an in-depth comparison of classical and modern liberalism, focusing on their views on human nature, the state, society, and the economy. Both strands share fundamental liberal values... Show more
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Classical and modern liberalism share fundamental views on human nature but diverge on the extent of individualism and social responsibility.
Both classical and modern liberalism a level Politics view humans as rational individuals capable of making their own decisions based on self-interest. They promote equality of opportunity and tolerance, restricting individual freedom only when it threatens the freedom of others.
Highlight: Both strands of liberalism hold a positive view of human nature and emphasize the importance of individual rationality.
Classical liberals, such as John Locke, believe that humans are guided by self-interest but also show concern for others. Mary Wollstonecraft argued that both men and women are capable of rational thought, challenging gender-based discrimination.
Quote: "Locke-humans guided by self-interest but concerned for others"
Modern liberals, while agreeing with the basic tenets of individual rationality, recognize the need for social justice awareness and favor some state intervention. John Rawls, a prominent modern liberal thinker, posited that humans can be selfish but are also sympathetic to the less fortunate.
Definition: Foundational equality refers to the liberal belief that all people are born equal and entitled to the same legal and political rights.
The key difference between classical and modern liberalism in their view of human nature lies in the concept of individualism. Classical liberals promote egotistical individualism, emphasizing self-reliance and personal responsibility. In contrast, modern liberals favor developmental individualism, recognizing the need for societal support to help individuals reach their full potential.
Vocabulary: Meritocracy is a system where advancement is based on individual ability and hard work, a concept valued by both classical and modern liberals.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
52
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the evolution of Modern Liberalism, focusing on key thinkers like T.H. Green and J.S. Mill. This summary delves into the contrasts between Classical and Modern Liberalism, highlighting concepts such as positive freedom, individuality, and the role of the state in addressing social inequalities. Ideal for students studying political ideologies and their historical context.
PoliticsExplore the foundational principles of Liberalism, focusing on the Social Contract, limited government, and constitutionalism. This study note delves into key concepts such as political legitimacy, separation of powers, and checks and balances, essential for understanding the Liberal State. Ideal for A Level Politics students preparing for exams.
CitizenshipExplore the key concepts of liberalism, including the role of the state, individual freedoms, and economic theories. This summary covers classical and modern liberal perspectives, the social contract, and the necessity of state intervention for equality of opportunity. Ideal for students studying political ideologies and their implications on society and the economy.
PoliticsExplore the contrasting ideologies of Realism and Liberalism in global politics. This summary delves into their core beliefs, including human nature, state behavior, and the role of international cooperation. Ideal for A-Level Politics students seeking to understand these fundamental political theories.
PoliticsExplore the evolution of Modern Liberalism, focusing on key thinkers like T.H. Green and John Stuart Mill. This summary covers the shift from classical to modern liberal thought, emphasizing concepts such as positive freedom, individuality, and the role of the state in addressing social inequalities. Ideal for A Level Government and Politics students preparing for exams.
CitizenshipExplore the core principles of Liberalism, focusing on justice, meritocracy, and equality of opportunity. This study note delves into the philosophical underpinnings of liberal thought, including foundational and formal equality, the role of rationalism, and the debates between classical and modern liberal perspectives. Ideal for A Level Politics students studying core ideologies.
PoliticsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Modern Studies
Sociology