**Negative Liberty:**

Negative liberty refers to the absence of external constraints or interference on an individual's actions. It emphasizes the idea of non-interference and the freedom from coercion or restrictions imposed by others. Negative liberty focuses on the individual's ability to act without external obstacles or limitations.

**Characteristics of Negative Liberty:**

1. Non-interference: Negative liberty emphasizes the absence of external interference or coercion on an individual's actions. It means that individuals are free to act as long as their actions do not harm others or infringe upon their rights.

2. Individual autonomy: Negative liberty values individual autonomy and self-determination. It recognizes the importance of allowing individuals to make choices and decisions based on their own preferences and desires.

3. Limited state intervention: Negative liberty advocates for limited state intervention in individuals' lives. It argues that the role of the state should primarily be to safeguard and protect individual rights and liberties, rather than imposing restrictions or regulations.

**Positive Liberty:**

Positive liberty refers to the ability of an individual to exercise control over their own actions and fulfill their potential. It emphasizes the idea of self-mastery and self-realization. Positive liberty focuses on enabling individuals to pursue their goals and live a meaningful life.

**Characteristics of Positive Liberty:**

1. Self-realization: Positive liberty values the development and fulfillment of an individual's potential. It recognizes that individuals should have the opportunity to pursue their own goals, aspirations, and self-fulfillment.

2. State intervention: Positive liberty acknowledges the role of the state in creating conditions and providing resources that enable individuals to exercise their freedom. It argues that the state should actively intervene to promote equality, social justice, and opportunities for all individuals.

3. Collective well-being: Positive liberty emphasizes the importance of collective well-being and social cohesion. It argues that individual freedom should be balanced with the welfare of society as a whole, and that measures should be taken to address systemic inequalities and promote the common good.

**Comparison:**

The main difference between negative liberty and positive liberty lies in their approach towards freedom and the role of the state. Negative liberty focuses on the absence of external constraints and non-interference, while positive liberty emphasizes the active promotion of individual self-realization and the role of the state in enabling individuals to exercise their freedom.

Negative liberty places more emphasis on individual rights and limited state intervention, while positive liberty recognizes the need for state intervention to ensure equal opportunities and promote collective well-being. While negative liberty values individual autonomy and non-interference, positive liberty values the development of individual potential and the creation of conditions for a meaningful life.

In conclusion, negative liberty emphasizes non-interference and the absence of external constraints, while positive liberty emphasizes self-realization and the enabling role of the state. Both concepts play important roles in shaping our understanding of freedom and individual rights.