I did copy this-Liberal democrat approach to the issues Start from the worth of all individuals. All institutions should primarily meet individuals needs. There is a basic equality of esteem and value between them all. Significant decisions should be made democratically, whenever possible. Each individual should have the greatest possible say over their own lives. They know what is best for them better than anyone else. It is not implied that individuals are perfectly rational: there is just no better or more committed judge, and psychological well-being is included. It is, in fact, a good thing in itself to feel in control of ones life. One of the psychological drives is social. Community has value for itself. Community is also a good way of achieving many ends, including banding together for political ends, to have a say. Everyone should be able to contribute to their communities. Power is better dispersed and accountable. Communities are a natural way, but even international institutions help. Market and other (including political) competition disperses power, but itself needs protection from monopoly power. All power also has to be limited by rights and other laws. Where possible, individuals should be free to do as they like, being the simplest way of having a say in their life. However, freedom can only be guaranteed by rules. Even a majority can oppress minorities and attack outsiders. Rights can be balanced by constitutional procedures. Liberal democrats aim for equality of treatment, not of outcomes. Minorities need protection, but this is normally best done by applying general rules. However, people need certain minimum standards. No-one should be disadvantaged by discrimination, ignorance or poverty. Diversity must be respected. If people are to control their own lives, they need to decide the basis for their own decisions. Our view of society should not be imposed, and any attempt to do so tends to be counter-productive. The natural environment also needs to be protected, and the future safeguarded. Otherwise, any short term gains will just lead to problems later. Approaches To Government and Public Services controlling power, decentralisation, participation, responsiveness, openness, honesty of funding To Society human rights, minorities, equality before the law; communities To the Economy competition, free & fair markets; corporate governance; fair taxation To the Environment sustainability; value animals as well; everyones quality of life To the World international institutions & rules; free movement This is summarised from Its About Freedom: the Report of the Liberal Democracy
Posted on: Fri, 21 Feb 2014 02:52:55 +0000
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