John Locke's Cautionary Notion Regarding The Pursuit Of Classical Liberalism

In the first source, John Locke present a cautionary notion regarding the pursuit of Classical Liberalism. He advises that without the government intervening and providing citizens with security, tyranny will prevail. Similar to Classical Liberalism, Locke advocates for individualism and precedence of “natural rights” including; the right to life, liberty and property. These were deemed as inherent rights, and ones to take priority over others. Moreover, during the 17th and 18th century, the focus of Classical Liberalism was to limit the amount of laws that could be passed, and thereby unhindered the restraints on individuals. However, Locke did want government involvement in order to prevent the possibility of individuals becoming increasing
entitled and tyrannical. Rule of Law is the concept which Locke wanted to be implemented. It states that no individual is superior and above the law; government officials to the daily worker are all subject under the same conditions. It is evident that Locke was exposed to the reign of a tyrannical official, and saw the despair and chaos that arose from the lack of acknowledgment for rights and protection. In summary, the source presents the issues that Classical Liberalism disregarded; specifically the political initiative needed to protect citizens and their rights. Locke wants the individualist values that Classical Liberalism supports, but requires increased government involvement in order to secure the safety of others and their rights, while simultaneously averting individuals from abusing this power and hurting others. Source II’s speaker is John Maynard Keynes, the person who invented Keynesian economics which is system created to combat the ‘boom and bust’ cycles of the economy.
By increasing government spending during times of depression to raise employment and to decrease government spending when the economy was flourishing. This was entitled deficit spending and a key aspect in resolving the Great Depression. Source II provides a cynical viewpoint on capitalism, mocking and stating that the theory does not account for human nature; selfishness, egoistic and highly self-motivated. Instead of relying upon the individuals who have conquered capitalism and depending on their compassion to share their profits, Keynes proposes that governments should be responsible for rescuing the economy. Considering that at this time the major influencer was The Great Depression, the issues that came with Classical Liberalism was the association with capitalism. Classical Liberalism advocates for self-interest and motivation to work; including private ownership. In addition, capitalism states the creation of distinct classes with the middle being the workers who have an obligation of self-reliance and responsibility. For Keynes, during this period, it was evident that the principles of Classical Liberalism being applied to capitalism was catastrophic – the economy will only prosper if the government assists in time of economic turmoil, instead of depending on elite individuals. Conclusively, this source
expresses the lack of accommodation the theory of Classical Liberalism holds during a depression; the liberalist value of little government involvement is flawed as people will not willingly contribute to the “common good”. The image of Source III showcases the conditions instigated by the rapid urbanization from the Industrial Revolution. The illustrator demonstrates the destitute circumstances of over-population and pollution via the usage of cramming the buildings, leaving little space emphasizing the congested living situation. Additionally, the billow of smoke resonating from the train highlights the shortcomings of innovation as it results