Module 9 reading

"Liberalism believes that, because of people's essential equality, social problems are shared, affect all equally and can be solved by negotiation. There is little recognition of the unequal resources and power different parties bring to the negotiations. Liberal systems of thought put a great deal of emphasis on individual freedom." (Bishop, 2005, p. 63) What is a criticism highlighted in the passage regarding liberalism's approach to problem-solving through negotiation?

• Lack of emphasis on individual freedom

• Overemphasis on unequal resources and power

• Inability to recognize social problems

• Ignoring the essential equality of individuals

"Class inequality thrives in liberal societies. Their public policy is shaped by those with power, money and historical advantage because it is assumed that they have their resources and position through merit. Liberals are reluctant to recognize historical and structural inequalities, particularly class." (Bishop, 2005, p. 63) Which statement represents a criticism about liberalism's approach to class inequality in society?

• Liberals believe class inequality is non-existent.

• Liberals recognize historical and structural inequalities, particularly related to class.

• Liberals shape public policy based on the needs of the general population.

• Liberals assume that resources and positions result only from merit.

"For example, for decades Canada's wealthiest individuals and corporations lobbied for luxuries and more money to invest in accumulating further wealth. Meanwhile people in lower income brackets actually suffer from tax relief." (Bishop, 2005, p. 63-64) Which statement is true?

• Wealthy individuals and corporations face challenges due to tax relief

• Lower-income individuals benefit from lobbying efforts for tax relief.

• Wealthy individuals benefit from tax relief.

Lower taxes mean ​ ​ (a)  

• more money to fix roads and fund healthcare
• less money to fix roads and fund healthcare

Tax cuts are very ---- in Canada.

Reorder the following:

• between the rich

• hides the gap

• which describes people as equal

• and the poor

• liberal ideology

One of the assumptions of Liberal Ideology is ​ ​ (a)  

• conflict is essential
• conflict is undesirable

Consequences of characterization of liberals

c

d

b

a

The powerful increase their power

Liberals are considered kind & accepting

Liberals accept all differences & views

The powerful are not judged

What is not a correct example of this quote from Bishop (2005):" Liberalism helps keep oppressive systems in place by constantly directing our attention to the 'good' and 'bad' individuals in the system and, therefore, away from the systems and structures themselves" (p. 65)

• In discussions about schools, liberals may only look at how one teacher or student is doing. They might not see the bigger issue – that some schools get more money than others. This makes it harder for everyone to have the same chances to succeed.

• In a liberal ideology, a police officer’s use of excessive force against a suspect is not considered an individual act but a broader issue systemic problems within the police force, such as issues of racial bias, lack of accountability, or inadequate training.

• In a liberal society, discussions about news often revolve around one reporter or TV person. However, this can hide the real issue – that a few big companies own most of the media. This means we hear mostly one side of the story, and important voices get left out.

"Liberal ideology is the ---- one in Canada." (Bishop, 2005, p. 65)