Classical liberalism is the philosophy committed to the ideal of limited government, constitutionalism, rule of law, due process, and liberty of individuals including freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and free markets.
Classical liberalism developed in the 19th century in Europe and the United States. Although classical liberalism built on ideas that had already developed by the end of the 18th century, it advocated a specific kind of society, government and public policy as a response to the Industrial Revolution and urbanization. Notable individuals who have contributed to classical liberalism include Jean-Baptiste Say, Thomas Malthus and David Ricardo. It drew on the economics of Adam Smith and on a belief in natural law, utilitarianism, and progress.
via Wikipedia
Not to be confused with Libertariansim, which varies by definition, but generally is a modern thought. Not me, I like the old school social theory from the eve of the Industrial Revolution. Simple things like the rule of law, freedom of religion, a constitution…appeal to me.
Weird how it’s the classical nature of the thinking that strikes me because I live in country that practices Social Liberalism. Which is nearly the same thing but includes the element of social justice, “in that it believes the legitimate role of the state includes addressing economic and social issues such as unemployment, health care, and education while simultaneously expanding civil rights.”
Not sure where I fall on that. At times the state does need to step in and force things, but overall I would prefer the community handle things by itself.
Which means, yep, I’m a classical liberal!