In the United States, political ideologies can greatly influence individual beliefs about government and society. Among these ideologies, conservatism and liberalism are two of the most prominent. Conservatism typically emphasizes limited government, personal responsibility, and free markets. In contrast, liberalism often advocates for social justice, government intervention in the economy, and the protection of civil liberties. Understanding these ideologies helps clarify political debates and policy preferences.
With this context in mind, which of the following statements best represents a core principle of liberal ideology?