Explain the link between Liberalism and Rationalism (15)

Rationalism can be linked to the liberal interpretation of freedom. Liberals believe that the individual is naturally self-seeking and self-sustainable. This is based on the idea that individuals are capable of judging their own best interests. As such they argue that the individual should be free to pursue their own interests. For example, Classical Liberals such as J.S Mill argue that individuals should be given the freedom to do whatever they want, so long as it does not infringe on the ability for others to do the same (‘Harm Principle’). However, while Modern Liberals agree, to an extent, in that they too argue that the individual is naturally inclined to be self-interested, they are critical of this. They believe that not everyone has equal ability to pursue their own self-interest and thus a product of individualism is social inequality. As such, they argue that the state has a responsibility to mitigate the inequalities that exist in order to provide equal oppurtunity.                                                             

Moreover, rationalism can be linked to the liberal interpretation of tolerance. Liberals believe that society can evolve through small, gradual changes overtime. As such they argue that conflict and disagreement can be resolved through the application of argument and debate rather than through the use of force. For example, Locke argues that in order for society to progress ‘truth must conquer falsehood,’ or in other words, good ideas must displace bad ones. On the other hand, however, New Right Conservatives are likely to be critical of this as they believe the permissiveness of liberalism is responsible for social fragmentation. This is because Conservatives have a negative view of human nature, arguing that humans can only be convinced to behave if they are deterred from expressing violence. For this reason, they uphold traditional values in bringing about social cohesion.