Liberalism has Helped Shape Western Political Philosophy

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Throughout history, liberalism has been a key principle doctrine in which has helped shape Western political philosophy. Western liberalism traditionally presents its core values around individual freedom and equality. It is also typically associated with democracy, capitalism, freedom of religion, and human rights. These principles have been highlighted in Europe and the United States for the past three hundred years and has served as the dominant ideology of modern Western society. However, although liberalism provides well-rooted concepts, there has been misconceptions throughout history that needed reevaluation. For example, laws throughout liberal societies have put constraints on racial and sexual equalities. Religious views have also shaped the country we live in and has also evolved over time. As we progress as a society, our ideas and beliefs progress as well. This has pushed us to modify the laws we abide by for the improvement of a better living. This essay will shape how and why Liberalism has changed and evolved over time to ensure that people are living in the best society possible. I will also explain how deeply rooted ideas have shaped the way we live today.

According to John Ryder, “the puritanism of the seventeenth century laid the foundation for the persistent American view of the uniqueness of the American experience with all its achievements and shortcomings.” Even today we have our own opinions and values on religion and government, but a lot of these values hold puritan morals. Puritans were deeply connected with the church, interconnecting everyday life with the laws of religion. The puritans had a belief that social communities were to be constructed on religious principles, one of which is that social ...

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...cal point of view opening up new thoughts and ideas to the world about human nature and political influence outside of the church. Eventually liberalism has brought us to where we are today in society. We are a society who will continue our liberalistic views because we favor social progress. One day in the future we will look back at ourselves and critique the very lifestyles we live today. But it has taken a long time to advance ourselves to the justice and liberty that we practice today. Sexual and racial stipulations have only just recently been abolished. This is because we have constantly been listening to the ideas and ratifications of only white, educated males throughout history. This has caused a skew in our perceptions throughout society. But these misconceptions have finally taken a new turn towards a freer more equal society thanks to Western Liberalism.

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