Read Review Of Resources For This Activity Textbook
Readreview The Following Resources For This Activitytextbook Chapte
Read/review the following resources for this activity: Textbook: Chapter 1, 2 Lesson Minimum of 1 scholarly source Instructions One role of government is to ensure that policies benefit the people within their jurisdiction. For local governments, it would be the townspeople or city dwellers. For the state governments, it would be the people living within the state. For the federal government, it would be everyone within the borders of the country. Using an ideology discussed in the textbook, construct an argument explaining how this ideology upholds the public good by examining power, order, and justice.
Select an ideology discussed in the textbook. In an essay, examine how power, order, and justice as it relates to the ideology you choose promotes the public good. Writing Requirements (APA format) Length: 1.5-2 pages (not including title page or references page) 1-inch margins Double spaced 12-point Times New Roman font Title page References page (minimum of 1 scholarly source and textbook/lesson)
Paper For Above instruction
The role of government in society is a fundamental concern in political science and public policy, with various ideologies providing different mechanisms for ensuring the collective good. Among these, liberalism stands out as an influential approach that emphasizes individual rights, equality, and the importance of institutions in maintaining social order. This essay explores how liberalism, through its concepts of power, order, and justice, upholds the public good within the framework of governmental policies.
Liberalism advocates for a limited and balanced distribution of power, primarily emphasizing safeguarding individual freedoms. This ideology champions the idea that governmental authority should be derived from the consent of the governed, often through representative institutions. John Locke, a prominent liberal thinker, argued that legitimate government is based on the social contract whereby individuals surrender some of their freedoms in exchange for security and protection of their natural rights (Locke, 1689). This framework ensures that power is not concentrated in a single authority but is distributed in a manner that prevents tyranny and promotes accountability, thus upholding the public good by protecting citizens’ rights and freedoms.
In terms of order, liberalism recognizes that social stability is necessary for the flourishing of individuals and the economy. However, it emphasizes that order should be maintained without infringing on individual liberties. For example, the rule of law is central to liberal thought, providing a predictable and fair legal framework that applies equally to all citizens (Rawls, 1971). By establishing clear laws and procedures, liberalism creates a stable environment conducive to personal development and economic activity, which ultimately benefits society at large. The emphasis on institutions such as courts, law enforcement, and democratic governance ensures that order is maintained in a way that respects individual rights, thereby serving the public interest.
Justice, within liberal ideology, is rooted in fairness, equality, and fairness of opportunity. The liberal conception of justice aims to ensure that all individuals have equal access to resources and opportunities necessary for personal and economic development (Sen, 2009). This focus supports the public good by fostering social mobility and reducing disparities. Policies inspired by liberal principles—like education and anti-discrimination laws—seek to rectify inequalities that hinder individuals from participating fully in society. Furthermore, liberal justice emphasizes protecting minority rights from potential abuses by majorities, ensuring a balanced and inclusive society.
In conclusion, liberalism, through its core principles of power, order, and justice, promotes the public good by safeguarding individual rights, maintaining social stability, and ensuring fairness. The distribution and limitation of power prevent tyranny, the rule of law provides stability, and justice ensures fairness and equality of opportunity for all. These elements work synergistically within liberal ideology to create a society where individuals can thrive, which is the essence of the public good addressed by government policies.
References
Locke, J. (1689). The Second Treatise of Government.
Rawls, J. (1971). A Theory of Justice. Harvard University Press.
Sen, A. (2009). The Idea of Justice. Harvard University Press.
textbook/lesson.