INSPECTING THE FOUNDATIONS OF LIBERALISM

In: Economic affairs: journal of the Institute of Economic Affairs, Band 30, Heft 1, S. 6-12

Abstract

Liberal justice is rooted in a system of conventions. They arise spontaneously as behavioural equilibria that bring mutual advantage to those adopting them. They protect life, limb, property and the pursuit of peaceful purposes, and require the fulfilment of reciprocal promises. Collective choice, where some impose choices on others who submit, violates liberal justice and reduces the set of freedoms. Liberalism and democracy are incompatible as organising principles and 'liberal democracy' is a contradiction in terms.