liberalismevarianten

Liberalism is a family of political doctrines that emphasizes individual liberty, equality before the law, and constitutional government. Variants differ in how they balance personal freedom with social justice and how much the state should intervene in the economy.

Classical liberalism argues for limited government, free markets, private property, and strong civil liberties. The state's primary role is to protect rights, enforce contracts, and provide basic public goods without attempting to redistribute income or regulate industry more than necessary.

Social liberalism accepts market mechanisms but supports government action to ensure fair opportunities and a social safety net. It favors welfare programs, public services, and regulation aimed at reducing inequality while preserving civil and political rights.

Neoliberalism promotes deregulation, privatization, free trade, and a smaller public sector. It emphasizes market efficiency, competitive markets, and the creation of legal and institutional frameworks to enable private enterprise, often with a focus on globalization and growth.

Libertarianism advocates a minimal state—sometimes called a night-watchman state—protecting individual rights with minimal taxation and regulation. It tends to oppose extensive welfare programs and argues for maximal personal and economic freedom.

Liberal conservatism combines liberal economic policies with traditional social values and scepticism about rapid change. It supports a market economy within a framework of social order, stability, and gradual reform.

Green liberalism merges liberal commitments to rights and markets with strong environmental concerns. It supports sustainable development, environmental regulation, and market-based policies alongside robust social protection.

The variants share a core emphasis on rights and the rule of law but differ in preferred instruments, the degree of state intervention, and the balance between liberty and social protection.