The Structure of a Liberal State

Dear reader,

in this blog, we'll take a look at how the concepts of liberalism apply to the state and alter its structure. For a deeper understanding of these concepts, I recommend reading the blog on liberalism.

Here

There are three distinct properties of the liberal state:

Constitutional/limited Government

• The liberal representation of constitutionalism is presented in a formal constitution. A contract between the people and the state agreed upon by all after extensive debate.

• There should be restrictions on how the government may rule.

• Constitution is also in place to protect the natural rights of the people (e.g. The U.S. Bill of Rights.).

Fragmented Government

• Is connected to the idea of constitutionalism and the want for a limited government.

• Absolute power is undesirable. Therefore the fragmentation/separation/division of power is necessary, creating a Fragmented Government.

E.g. The separation of power in the United States:

1. The Legislature (Congress)

2. The Executive (President)

3. The Judiciary (e.g. The Supreme Court)

This is called horizontal separation of power.

Other than that, the power is also separated on a federal, state and local level (vertical separation of power). To ensure this works, there is a system of checks and balances to check on the institutions.

“Absolute power corrupts absolutely” - Lord Acton

Formal Equality

• Liberals believe in the concept of foundational equality, i.e. everyone is born with equal rights.

• The liberal state should reflect this and embrace the concept of the Rule of Law. In short, the Rule of Law holds that laws should apply to everyone, and that fundamental political rights should be protected (e.g. freedom to hold political office, freedom of speech and expression) .

If you'd like to know more about the Rule of Law, there is a whole series of blogs on my page on the topic in much more detail.

* Please note that at no point in this blog am I providing legal advice or claiming to be a professional. These blogs are for entertainment and educational purposes only.*