MacPherson's Possessive Individualism
The term 'possessive individualism' was coined by the political theorist C. B. MacPherson.
Characterizing Early Liberalism
MacPherson used this term to critique and characterize the underlying assumptions of early liberalism, particularly as found in the works of thinkers like Thomas Hobbes and John Locke.
- He argued that early liberal thought viewed individuals primarily as possessors of their own persons and capacities.
- This perspective emphasized individual rights to property and self-ownership, seeing society and the state as arrangements primarily to protect these possessions.
- MacPherson suggested this created a model of society based on market relations and alienation.
Conclusion
Therefore, C. B. MacPherson is the theorist credited with characterizing early liberalism as 'possessive individualism'.
Important Questions from Western Philosophers
- Deontological theory of moral goodness is associated with:
- Which among the following most appropriately defines the idea of eudemonia?
"we must tolerate the view point of the other even if those view points go strongly against our view points; because, in the past, we have made wrong judgements about things/action/events, and there is possibility that the view I hold to be true now may turn out to be wrong later." With whom is the above argument on toleration associated with?
- Who among the following philosophers emphasized the primacy of ethics?
- Which among the following philosophers preaches theistic existentialism?
