What is the Difference Between Modern Liberalism and Classical Liberalism?

The main differences between modern liberalism and classical liberalism revolve around the role of the state, the interpretation of rights, and the focus on social and economic equality.

1. Role of the State: Classical liberals believe in minimal state intervention and are often suspicious of large states, as they may impose upon individuals' negative freedom. On the other hand, modern liberals advocate for state action, including economic regulation and provision of social services, to address issues such as extreme poverty and inequality.
2. Interpretation of Rights: Classical liberals focus on 'negative freedom,' which is the belief that individuals are free when they are simply free from oppression. In contrast, modern liberals support 'positive freedom,' which emphasizes that individuals should have the opportunity to exercise their rights and achieve self-realization.
3. Social and Economic Equality: Classical liberals, now often called libertarians, regard the state as the primary threat to individual freedom and advocate limiting its powers. Modern liberals, however, recognize that freedom can also be threatened by private economic actors, such as businesses, and advocate for state action to address these threats and promote social justice.

In summary, classical liberalism prioritizes individual liberty and limited state intervention, while modern liberalism focuses on addressing social and economic inequality through state action and the promotion of positive freedom.

Comparative Table: Modern Liberalism vs Classical Liberalism

Here is a table comparing the differences between modern liberalism and classical liberalism:

Classical liberalism emphasizes the protection of individual liberties, particularly freedom of speech, religion, and private property, as well as minimizing government intervention in the economy. In contrast, modern liberalism, also known as social liberalism, focuses on social justice, a mixed economy, and the balance between individual rights and government involvement for the welfare of the needy.