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At the heart of liberalism there is a fear of unchecked power?
Member rating: No Rating | Words: | Submitted: Wed Feb 25 2004
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At the heart of liberalism there is a fear of unchecked power? John Stuart Mill argued that 'the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any members in a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm from others'. This outlines the liberal view on the use of power. Unchecked power could come in two different forms: the first could be used by an individual over another. Liberals fear that free individuals may wish to exploit others if it is in their interest to do so. They may also break or ignore contracts when it suits them. The liberty of one person is always therefore in danger of becoming license to abuse another; each person can be said to be both a threat to and under threat from every other member of society. Our liberty requires that they are restrained from encroaching upon our freedom and in turn...
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