THE MORAL FOUNDATIONS OF LIBERAL LEGITIMACY

Abstract

The liberal principle of legitimacy underpins most liberal neutralist arguments against state perfectionism. It is no exaggeration to say that the case for neutrality turns on the conjunction of the principle and the fact of reasonable pluralism. However, this principle of legitimacy is often assumed and unjustified. In this thesis, I contribute to the debate by providing a moral foundation for the liberal principle of legitimacy ? that end(s)-seekers have a right to non-interference. Having done so, I then argue that a proper understanding of the liberal principle of legitimacy (and its moral foundations) does not lead to a rejection of state perfectionism. We are instead directed by the principle to secure the right to associate and movement on a global level.