Social liberalism, a reformulation of 19th century
liberalism, rests on the view that unrestrained capitalism is a hindrance to true freedom. Instead of the
negative freedom of classical liberalism, social liberals offered
positive freedom that would allow individuals to prosper with public assistance in health, education and welfare.
[1] This later included government intervention in the economy to provide
full employment and protection of human rights. These policies were widely adopted and implemented in much of the capitalist world, particularly following the
Second World War.
[2] Social liberal ideas and parties tend to be considered
centrist[3][4] or
centre-left.
[5][6][7]A reaction to social liberalism in the late 20th century, often called neoliberalism, led to monetarist economic policies and a reduction in government provision of services. However this did not mean a return to classical liberalism as governments continued to provide social services and retained control over economic policy.
Social liberalism is also sometimes called new liberalism[nb 1][8] (as it was originally termed) or modern liberalism,[9].
The Liberal International is the main international organisation of liberal parties, which include, among other liberal variants, social liberal parties. It affirms the following principles human rights, free and fair elections and multiparty-democracy, social justice, tolerance, social market economy, free trade, environmental sustainability and a strong sense of international solidarity.[10] These ideals are described in further detail in the various manifestos of the LI.
