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| Question | Answer |
| Pragmatism | Behaving according to practical circumstances and goals rather than fixed ideological principles. Acting according to real-life experience (empiricism) rather than rational models or theories. Politically, judging policies individually based on their merits, 'what works'. Has been associated with lack of principe |
| Individualism | The individual is of primary importance as a socio-political unit, over and above any social groups, class etc. The individual is thus central to any political theory (descriptive), and society should be structured to benefit the individual (normative). Classical liberalism supports egoistic individualism; modern liberalism developmental individualism. |
| Constitutionalism | Limits government through the existence of a codified constitution. Government institutions and processes are constrained by constitutional rules/laws, reflecting the desire to protect liberty by limiting the power of government, frequently done through a system of checks and balances and/or the separation of powers |
| Paternalism | Literally 'to act like a father'. Those in power have a duty to help and protect those below them. Supports the exercise of authority from above for the benefit of those below, eg. compulsory wearing of seat-belts. Based on the idea that wisdom is unequally distributed, and therefore those in positions of authority 'know best'. Conflicts with rationalism. |
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