Individual Liberty vs Stability and Order

Definition

This is a fundamental debate in political philosophy about the balance between individual freedoms and the need for societal stability and order.

Analogy

It's like being at a party. Individual liberty is like everyone being able to play their own music, but stability and order are like having a DJ who controls the playlist to prevent chaos. The challenge is finding the right balance so everyone can enjoy the party.

Related terms

Civil Liberties: These are basic rights and freedoms granted to individuals as protection from any arbitrary actions or laws of the government.

Social Contract Theory: This theory suggests that people live together in society in accordance with an agreement that establishes moral and political rules of behavior.

Authoritarianism: A system of government characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms.