UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

Modern liberalism arose as a response to which of the following?

1. The success of free-market capitalism

2. Increased government regulation of personal freedoms

3. The failure of socialism in the UK

4. A desire for more individualistic community values

The correct answer is: The success of free-market capitalism

Modern liberalism arose as a response to the success of free-market capitalism. This development came about as industrialization and economic expansion highlighted the need for individual freedoms and rights within a capitalist framework. As societies transitioned from feudalism to more market-oriented economies, modern liberals emphasized the importance of personal liberty, economic opportunity, and the protection of individual rights against potential overreach by the state. The emphasis on free-market capitalism underpins key modern liberal ideals, such as the belief in a limited role for government in economic affairs and the promotion of competition, which can enhance individual autonomy and prosperity. This alignment with the principles of a market economy is fundamental to modern liberal thought, making it a driving force behind the emergence of this ideology.