A liberal is someone who supports a political and social philosophy emphasizing individual rights, civil liberties, democracy, and economic freedom. Liberals advocate for personal freedom, equality before the law, free enterprise, and often support reforms that promote social justice and equal opportunity
. Liberalism as a philosophy is rooted in the protection and enhancement of individual liberty, with the belief that government should protect individuals from harm but also avoid abusing its power. Classical liberalism focuses on limited government, free markets, and individual autonomy, while modern liberalism often supports government intervention to remove obstacles such as poverty and discrimination to enable individuals to realize their potential
. In contemporary terms, liberals tend to be more open to social change, tolerance, and progressive reforms, often positioned on the left side of the political spectrum, in contrast to conservatives
. The term "liberal" can also describe someone who is open-minded, generous, and tolerant of differing views
. In summary, a liberal generally supports:
- Individual rights and freedoms
- Democracy and political equality
- Free markets with varying degrees of government intervention
- Social reforms to promote fairness and reduce inequality
- Tolerance and pluralism in society
