Liberalism · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The endnotes provide supplementary references and clarifications on medieval political theory, the evolution of legal privileges like benefit of clergy, comparisons between the 1789 and 1793 French Declarations of Rights, distinctions betwe
What happens
The endnotes provide supplementary references and clarifications on medieval political theory, the evolution of legal privileges like benefit of clergy, comparisons between the 1789 and 1793 French Declarations of Rights, distinctions between the Manchester School and Philosophical Radicals, and discussions on economic reorganization, taxation, and legislative reform.
Themes in this chapter
Liberty and Restraint
Discusses the evolution of legal privileges and the tension between individual rights and governmental authority, as seen in the abolition of benefit of clergy and the French Declarations.
Economic Freedom and Social Welfare
Addresses economic reorganization, taxation limits, and the stimulus of remuneration, reflecting on the balance between economic liberty and social welfare.
Democracy and Popular Sovereignty
Examines legislative control, referendums, and the role of a Second Chamber, touching on democratic governance and popular sovereignty.
Characters to notice
- Jeremy Bentham
Referenced in the context of the Manchester School and Philosophical Radicals, as a disciple of Adam Smith.
- Richard Cobden
Mentioned in relation to the school of Cobden and its distinction from the Benthamites, with reference to Lord Morley's Life of Cobden.
Key passages
“If I were asked to sum up in a sentence the difference and the connection (between the two schools) I would say that the Manchester men were the disciples of Adam Smith and Bentham, while the Philosophical Radicals followed Bentham and Adam Smith”
The Manchester School and the Philosophical Radicals both drew from Adam Smith and Bentham, but with differing emphasis.
Highlights the intellectual lineage of two influential 19th-century economic and political schools.
“The end of society is the common happiness. Government is instituted to guarantee to man the enjoyment of his natural and imprescriptible rights.”
Society aims for collective well-being, and government exists to secure individuals' inherent rights.
From the 1793 French Declaration, contrasting with the 1789 version.