Liberal Ideas

  Fundamental belief in a political ideal where individuals are free to pursue their own
goals in their own ways provided they do not infringe on the equal liberty of others.

What is liberalism?
 Liberalism is the most commonly accepted alternative theoretical perspective to realism
 Liberalism emphasizes interdependence between states: Ties and relationships between
states have decreased the usefulness of military power.
 Liberalism was developed in the 1970s as many experts began to argue that realism was
an old concept Due to globalization, the rise of global communications and an increase in
international trade meant that states could no longer rely on simple power politics to
decide matters
 Cosmopolitan morality rather than balance of power
 Humanity benefits from a peaceful international order – nations can develop and trade
which leads to progress