The term liberalism, when applied to governments, is very different from the term liberal in America. Where liberalism implies a limited government, here in the United States a liberal is not usually seen as supporting a smaller government. This can be very confusing. In an effort to better understand these various meanings, we need to explore the variations within liberalism itself.
So who would like to explain how modern liberalism varies from classical liberalism? In addition, in what ways is classical liberalism similar to conservatism today? This discussion question focuses on liberalism vs. socialism.
Along with your textbook reading for the week, here’s some additional reading to consider about liberalism vs. socialism:
Adam Kern, “Liberalism v. Socialism,” Harvard Political Review, May 30, 2012.
http://harvardpolitics.com/united-states/liberalism-versus-socialism/ (Links to an external site.)
Remember to use an outside source in the main post. Must be 300 words and must use an outside source.
