Chapter 1
British values and principles
Five fundamental principles, the responsibilities of everyone who lives here, and the freedoms the UK offers in return.
By the end you should know
- Name the five fundamental principles of British life
- List the responsibilities of people living in the UK
- List the freedoms the UK offers in return
British society rests on shared values that grew out of the country's long history. Anyone who wants to settle permanently is expected to understand them and to live by them.
The fundamental principles
What are the five fundamental principles of British life?
Key factDemocracy · the rule of law · individual liberty · tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs · participation in community life
These principles apply to everyone in the UK, whatever their background, and they are reflected in the responsibilities and freedoms below.
Your responsibilities
What responsibilities do people living in the UK have?
Key factRespect and obey the law · respect the rights of others, including their right to their own opinions · treat others with fairness · look after yourself and your family · look after the area you live in and the environment
What the UK offers in return
Which freedoms does the UK offer in return?
Key factFreedom of belief and religion · freedom of speech · freedom from unfair discrimination · a right to a fair trial · a right to join in the election of a government
Exam tip: a common trick is to slip something plausible but wrong into the list — such as 'compulsory voting' or 'loyalty to one political party'. Learn the five principles word for word.