Market A mechanism that enables exchanges to occur, but in a way which conceals
the real power that people possess.
Marxism A theory whose potential for emancipation is undermined by notions
of class war, revolution and dictatorship.
Meritocracy A society in which wealth, and other goods, are distributed according
to innate ability.
Modernity A term that denotes the onset of the liberal period so that modernism
is used as a synonym for liberalism.
Momentum concept A concept that has a potential for freedom and equality, but
whose progress is infinite, and therefore can never be realised.
Monopoly A process or agent that dominates a collectivity demanding an ultimate
loyalty from its subjects.
Morality A system of beliefs that emphasises the rightness or wrongness of an
activity or process.
Multiculturalism The existence of a number of cultures in a single political system;
alternatively, an ideology which recognises that fact as important or values such
diversity.
Nation A collective, normally territorial, entity which commands allegiance. Some
theorists argue that nations are the product of modernity, others claim they are
‘primordial’ or perennial.
Nationalism An ideology that takes the nation to be of fundamental value.
Natural A process that is developmental. What is natural is therefore susceptible
to historical change.
Naturalism A doctrine which treats the natural in a static and ahistorical way. It
assumes that what exists at the present can never change.
Neo-conservatism An American stream of conservatism that stresses natural rights
and the importance of resisting what it sees as tyranny.
Order A stability in the possession of things; security against violence and a trust
in others that promises will be kept.
Paternalism Intervention to restrict a person’s freedom on the grounds that it is
in his or her interests.
Patriarchal A static concept and practice that enshrines male domination.
Patriarchy need not be pursued by biological men.
Political obligation The moral obligation to obey the state. Many political
theorists, especially anarchists, question whether political obligation is possible.
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