Liberalism and Democracy

On what grounds have liberals defended democracy?

Democracy and liberal individualism

Democracy/people power is inherently a collectivist concept & implies full equality which conflicts with liberal individualism & its emphasis on freedom

Also representative democracy implies growing role for the state, which may lead to an encroachment on property rights

Classical liberals did not favour universal suffrage; feared ‘mobocracy’ & tyranny of majority

Consent

Modern liberals have justified liberal democracy on the grounds of consent – it seeks to ensure that govt rests on the consent of the people – legitimate authority

& the idea that citizens must have a means of protecting themselves from the encroachment of govt

Ballot box acts as a constraint – responsive and accountable govt

‘No taxation without representation’ Utilitarians – linked democracy to the ability of

individuals to advance or defend their interests meaning it promotes ‘the greatest happiness for the greatest number’

Participation

Democracy also endorsed on the grounds that political participation has educational advantages

By participating in political life citizens enhance their understanding and achieve a higher level of personal development. Sometimes called developmental democracy

Can be used to advance civil liberties

Pluralism

A more modern liberal defence of democracy draws on pluralist ideas in that it is the best means of maintaining equilibrium

As it gives competing groups a political voice, it binds them to the political system and so maintains political stability

For or against?

CollectivistLegitimate authorityConsentPluralismCivil libertiesMajoritarianismIndividual sovereigntyState intervention and controlSelf developmentPolitical representationProperty rightsSocial harmony and stability