Conservatism Flashcards
(42 cards)
Why does conservatism seek to conserve society?
It is suspicious of change
What does conservatism value over ideological thinking?
Pragmatism. It seeks to adapt its values over time, according to changes in society.
What time period challenged much of what conservatism had traditionally stood for?
1970s and 1980s (neo-conservatism and thatcher)
What are two defintiosn of consevative (adjective)?
- Adverse to change or innovation and holding traditional values
- Favouring free enterprise, private ownership and socially conservative ideas
What is pragmatism?
The rejection of ideology and the favouring of making decisions based off of practical experience. Humans lack the intellectual capacity to understand complex political snd economic theories, so leaders need to emphasise caution, moderation and continuity.
Who are two key figures in the history of conservatism that advocated pragmatism?
- Edmund Burke (18th century during French revolution, believed in ‘evolution, not revolution)
- Michael Oakshott (20th century)
What is one thing that pragmatism really focuses on?
Evolution. Keep things steady and stable and maintain law and order and established institutions.
Which two branches conservativism emphasise pragmatism?
Traditional and One Nation Conservatism
Hwo did the Conservative government which took power in 1951 act in a pragmatic way?
They maintained the welfare state established by the post-ww2 Labour government due to its popularity and its effectiveness in combating the 5 giants of the Beveridge Report.
Why do Conservatives value tradition?
Institutions, customs and practices of the past (monarchy, constitution, religion, family and marriage) have been the building blocks of society and should be passed down. It brings social cohesion, security and certainty.
What did Burke believe about tradition?
Each generation has a duty to pass these traditions on to the next
What was a recent time in which the majority of Tory MPs controversially upheld tradition?
2/3s of Tory MPs voted against same-sex marriage to conserve tradition
What do traditionalists believe tradition leads to?
Social cohesion, security and certainty which creates a stable society
What is the traditionalist group of the UK conservative party?
Cornerstone group
Do Conseravtives believe humans are perfect?
Humans are imperfect and psychologically and morally flawed according to conservatives. They have the capacity to do evil and therefore need strong law and order to be kept in check.
How do conservatives believe we should manage the imperfection of man?
- A tough stance on law and order
- Promote national security
- Have a political system which recognises self-interest as more of a motivator than altruism (recognises selfishness of man)
What is atomism?
Belief that society made up of self-interested individuals and so should be treated like it
What can atomism explain in society?
Social breakdown and isolation
How do some conservatives view altruism?
Many conservatives believe that altruism for the sake of it is a complete waste of time. This is because, for example, if the rich give to the poor again and again then the poor become dependant and that is not good for anyone in society. It is therefore better to allow people to decide as to whether or not you want to be altruistic, you must not force it. Many more traditional comservatives, e.g. Burke, believe more in altruism and a duty for the priviliged to help the poor.
How do some conservatives view atomism?
Many conservatives believe thatbbeing a self-interested individual can have both benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, it can drive success and progress through entrepeuners and innovators, but if left unchecked it can cause a broken society. Some more traditional conservatives believe atomism leads to degeneracy and social breakdown.
How do conservatives propose tackling psychological imperfection?
Social order. Order must be put over liberty as it provides much needed security, predictability and stability. Liberty raises uncertainty.
How do conservatives propose tackling moral imperfections?
Humans are naturally selfish and greedy but this does not necessarily need to be discouraged. Anti-social behaviour can only be attributed to human nature not economic or social disadvantage (poverty). Severe sanctions (strong law and order) is the only effective deterrent.
How do conservatives propose tackling intellectual imperfections?
Humans do not posses the mental facilities to make sense of a complex modern world, therefore, humans must draw on tradition, history and practical experience over overarching ideologies (marxism)
What is the conservative idea of an organic society/state?
Society is like a living organism, all its parts must work together in order to ensure its ‘health’. There is a careful balance of interacting elements within a society can maintain things like affection, security and concern. Those in authority, higher up the hierarchy, have greater responsibility and are key to the society.
