Abstract
Liberalism is a philosophy, or political movement that has, for an aim, the development of individual freedom. Since the concept of freedom evolved over time, liberalism evolved as well. However, some core assumptions never changed. First, let us consider how all the core concepts of liberalism are inter-related and based on the individual. Then we shall have a look at each of these concepts. The underlying concept of Liberalism is the concept of the individual. Everything should rely upon it, the society should be organized around him, he should be the main concern. To liberals, all individuals are equally self interested and equally capable of rational thought. Therefore, they are all pursuing different goals and all these goals are equally important to full fill. Since we are all rational beings, one goal is as important as the other because they both come from a rational reflection. Thus there should be equality of opportunity for all to achieve these goals.
