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
"Teaching is the stimulation guidance direction and encouragement of learning". This definition was given by
Which sociologist observed that education perpetuates the culture of the dominant class and called this phenomenon as ‘Cultural reproduction’?
"A problem that has been presented represents an outpost where the unknown has to be reached after a simple battle." Who said this statement?
Which sociologist did not consider that religion has a functional role in society?
Socrates, Plato and Aristotle were ______ idealists.
