Classical Liberalism
Classical liberalism, rooted in the 17th to 19th centuries, emphasises individual rights, limited government, the rule of law and free markets. Thinkers such as John Locke and Adam Smith argued that the state's main role is to protect life, liberty and property.
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Favours dispersed power and checks on central government.
Supports representative government and constitutional limits, historically with restricted franchise.
Places strong priority on individual liberty against state power.
Favours peaceful commerce between nations without pooling sovereignty.
Sees free trade as a path to peace and is wary of standing armies and empire.
No unified view; open labour markets in principle, but varied attitudes in practice.
Strongly defends private property and market outcomes.
Advocates minimal state involvement in the economy.
Free trade is one of its defining positions.
Supports religious toleration and separation of church and state.
Reformist in its time, but cautious about using the state to change social customs.
Favours innovation and the free development of science and industry.