Conservatism Flashcards
(153 cards)
1
Q
A
2
Q
Describe the conservative view of human nature according to traditional philosophers.
A
Conservatives view human nature as fixed and flawed, emphasizing human fragility and imperfection. They reject the idea of a malleable human nature, instead seeing it as constant and imperfect, often referred to as a ‘philosophy of imperfection’.
3
Q
Explain Thomas Hobbes’ perspective on human nature in the state of nature.
A
Hobbes argued that life in the state of nature is marked by ‘envy, hatred, and violent conflict’, leading to a life that is ‘nasty, brutish, and short’. He believed human nature is mercilessly individualistic, but that reason can lead individuals to recognize the need for a formal state to ensure order and security.
4
Q
How did Edmund Burke respond to the optimistic views of human potential during the French Revolution?
A
Burke criticized the optimistic views of human potential as implausibly upbeat, emphasizing a ‘timeless chasm’ between human aspiration and achievement. He argued that change should be slow and gradual due to humanity’s tendency to fall short.
5
Q
Define the more hopeful view of human nature presented by Michael Oakeshott.
A
Oakeshott offered a more forgiving view of human nature, suggesting that humanity is ‘fallible, not terrible’ and ‘imperfect, not immoral’. He believed that while humans often fail to meet targets, they are still capable of kindness, fellowship, and solidarity.
6
Q
What is the significance of ‘little platoons’ in conservative thought?
A
‘Little platoons’ refers to the idea that society is made up of local, voluntary, apolitical mini communities, such as churches, clubs, and families. This concept, emphasized by Burke and Oakeshott, highlights the importance of these units in providing security, fellowship, and a sense of purpose.
7
Q
How do conservatives view the relationship between society and law and order?
A
Conservatives, like Hobbes and Burke, argue that society cannot exist without law and order. They believe that once law and order collapse, the foundations of society, such as individual rights and respect for personal property, also disappear.
8
Q
Explain the conservative perspective on the emergence of society.
A
Conservatives view society as an organic entity that cannot be planned or created; it must emerge gradually and organically, similar to a plant that grows in ways that cannot be wholly foreseen.
9
Q
What role does the state play in conservative views of society?
A
In conservative thought, the state is essential for maintaining law and order, which are necessary for peaceful interactions among individuals. The state provides the framework within which society can function.
10
Q
Describe the New Right perspective on individualism and community.
A
The New Right perspective, influenced by thinkers like Ayn Rand and Robert Nozick, emphasizes individual freedom, autonomy, and self-determination. It stresses the importance of egotism in fostering a vibrant capitalist economy while also recognizing that dynamic individuals require the restraint of formal authority and support from communities.
11
Q
How does David Cameron’s view align with traditional conservative thought?
A
David Cameron emphasized the concept of a ‘big society and a small state’, aligning with traditional conservative thought by advocating for local communities and voluntary associations to provide support, rather than relying solely on a large, impersonal state.
12
Q
Describe the role of discipline and authority in society according to traditional conservatism.
A
Discipline and attention are essential for a functioning society, which can only exist when law, order, and authority are established.
13
Q
Explain Burke’s view on the ideal society.
A
Burke described the best kind of society as a partnership between the living, the dead, and those yet to be born, emphasizing the importance of tradition.
14
Q
How does Burke view the relationship between society and abstract ideals?
A
Burke believed that society does not operate according to abstract ideals devised by imperfect intelligence but is instead guided by practical experience.
15
Q
Define paternalistic inequality in the context of traditional conservatism.
A
Paternalistic inequality defends the natural and desirable nature of unequal wealth and power, with the upper classes having a responsibility to enlighten and protect the weaker members of society.
16
Q
What was Burke’s perspective on the French Revolution?
A
Burke viewed the French Revolution’s attempt to reshape society in the name of égalité as futile and warned that neglecting the responsibilities of the upper classes could lead to societal tensions.
17
Q
Discuss the significance of property in traditional conservatism.
A
Traditional conservatism recognizes the importance of private property as it complements societal aspects, is often inherited, and is linked to local institutions, forming the basis for ‘little platoons’.
18
Q
How do the New Right thinkers Rand and Nozick differ from traditional conservatives regarding society?
A
Rand and Nozick adopt a more atomistic view of society, emphasizing individualism and rejecting paternalism, believing that beneficiaries of inequality must earn their privileges.
19
Q
What is the New Right’s stance on meritocracy in unequal societies?
A
The New Right insists that unequal societies must be meritocratic, ensuring that those who benefit from inequality have earned their privileges.
20
Q
Explain the New Right’s view on private property.
A
The New Right considers private property essential for the good of society, arguing that property rights should be enjoyed by the majority of people.
21
Q
Describe the primacy of order in the view of the state according to traditional conservatism.
A
Traditional conservatives see the state’s role as primarily preventative, focusing on ensuring safety and security (which cannot exist without the state), and preventing harm rather than creating good (Oakeshott).
22
Q
How do traditional conservatives view the relationship between law, order, and the state?
A
They believe that safety and security are impossible without law and order, which can only exist through the authority of the state.
23
Q
What is the perspective of Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott on the hierarchy of the state?
A
They are comfortable with a hierarchical state that reflects an unequal society, with Hobbes advocating for concentrated power to maintain peace.
24
Q
Discuss Burke’s views on aristocratic rule and its limitations.
A
Burke supported aristocratic rule constrained by a constitution and believed it should be limited by a strong, confident society represented by ‘little platoons’; keen on ‘natural’ hierarchy/ruling class while exercising paternalistic responsibility; also stated that hierarchical gov mist be limited by constitution.
25
Explain Oakeshott's metaphor of the state as a ship.
Oakeshott's nautical metaphor suggests that the state is like a ship without an agreed port of destination, with its main aim being to stay afloat by charting a safe course.
26
What do Oakeshott and Burke argue regarding the guidance of the state?
They argue that the state should not be guided by dogma or doctrine but by empiricism, experience, and consensus.
27
How does Burke's view of human nature relate to traditional Christian teachings?
Burke and Oakeshott are not averse to abstract ideas of traditional Christian religion, stressing Original Sin and arguing that Christian teaching provides a sure understanding of human nature.
28
Describe Oakeshott's view of the state.
Oakeshott sees the state as an end in itself, a sturdy vessel that rescues passengers from anarchy, promoting consensus and harmony among various interests.
29
Explain the New Right perspective on the state compared to Oakeshott's views.
The New Right, represented by thinkers like Nozick, criticizes Oakeshott's views as too passive and accommodating, advocating for a more rigid and ideological state.
30
How did Thatcher's political approach differ from consensus politics?
Thatcher was characterized as a 'conviction politician' rather than a consensus politician, focusing on strengthening the state by reducing its size and obligations.
31
Define the conservative view on capitalism and inequality.
Capitalism tends to nurture/widen inequalities; conservatism wishes to maintain inequalities breaded by capitalism.
32
Explain the traditional conservative stance on state intervention in the economy.
Traditional conservatives support keeping free markets in check with state intervention, such as tariffs and duties, to protect national identity and maintain the status quo.
33
Describe the relationship between traditional conservatives and Keynesian capitalism.
Traditional conservatives are drawn to Keynesian capitalism, advocating for state-managed market forces to ensure full employment while maintaining property and hierarchy.
34
What was Reaganomics and how did it relate to the New Right's economic views?
Reaganomics referred to the free-market capitalism of the 1980s in the USA, which aligned with the New Right's aim to free the UK economy through privatization while upholding traditional values.
35
Summarize Thomas Hobbes' justification for the state as outlined in Leviathan.
Hobbes justified the state as a necessary response to the chaos of the English Civil War, arguing for a strong state to prioritize peace and order over individual rights.
36
How did Hobbes view human nature and its implications for society?
Hobbes had a gloomy view of human nature, seeing individuals as selfish and competitive, leading to a need for a powerful state to provide order and security.
37
Explain the concept of the social contract according to Hobbes.
The social contract, according to Hobbes, is an agreement among individuals to surrender their power to a sovereign authority in exchange for order and security, establishing the foundation of society.
38
What is Hobbes' preferred form of government?
Hobbes preferred a monarchy or any form of government with one absolute authority to maintain order and stability.
39
Describe the state of nature as per Hobbes' philosophy.
In Hobbes' state of nature, resources are scarce, leading to competition and war among individuals who are roughly equal in strength and driven by a desire for power.
40
How does Hobbes believe individuals can rise above the state of nature?
Hobbes believes individuals can rise above the state of nature by rationally agreeing to a social contract that establishes a powerful ruler to ensure peace and security.
41
What role does the state play in Hobbes' view of society?
In Hobbes' view, the state is essential for creating order and authority, without which society cannot exist.
42
Describe the role of the state in the economy according to Hobbes.
The state is essential for guaranteeing order and security, making constructive and enduring economic activity possible.
43
Explain Edmund Burke's view on the French Revolution.
Burke opposed the French Revolution, believing it aimed to destroy existing institutions and traditions based on idealism rather than empiricism.
44
Define the concept of 'little platoons' as described by Edmund Burke.
Little platoons refer to small communities where traditions and customs are formed, serving as a bank of knowledge based on trial and error in political problem-solving.
45
How does Burke view human nature in relation to individualism?
Burke is highly critical of individualism, emphasizing the importance of the collective 'we' over the individual 'I'.
46
Explain Burke's perspective on the social contract.
Burke opposed the idea of a social contract as suggested by Hobbes, arguing that the true contract exists between the living, the dead, and those yet to be born.
47
Describe the organic view of society according to Burke.
Burke viewed society as organic, developing naturally with traditions and customs changing slowly based on practical knowledge and evidence.
48
What is Michael Oakeshott's contribution to conservative thought?
Oakeshott updated conservative views on human nature and gradual reform, emphasizing pragmatism and rejecting utopian ideals.
49
How does Oakeshott characterize human nature?
Oakeshott sees humans as fragile and fallible, unable to fully comprehend a world that is too complex for human reason.
50
Define the politics of scepticism as proposed by Oakeshott.
The politics of scepticism suggests that government attempts to perfect mankind are dangerous for liberty and dignity, advocating for a limited role of government.
51
Explain Oakeshott's criticism of rationalism in politics.
Oakeshott criticizes the politics of rationalism for attempting to remake society based on abstract ideas, which he believes damages traditions and fails to account for concrete experiences.
52
Describe the conservative view on the economy as presented by Burke.
Burke advocates for 'organic' free markets and laissez-faire capitalism, emphasizing the importance of tradition and gradual change.
53
What is the significance of localised communities in Oakeshott's view of society?
Oakeshott believes that localised communities are essential for humanity's survival and well-being, highlighting their importance in a pragmatic society.
54
How does Burke's view on hierarchy differ from the French Revolution's emphasis on equality?
Burke argues that hierarchy is natural and criticizes the French Revolution's focus on equality, which he sees as a threat to established social order.
55
What does Oakeshott suggest about the role of government in society?
Oakeshott suggests that the role of government should be limited to preserving public order, guided by tradition and practical concerns; pragmatism over dogmatism
56
Explain the conservative perspective on human nature as presented by Burke.
Burke holds a sceptical view of human nature, believing that while individuals may be foolish, the species as a whole possesses wisdom; cannot rely on individual reason, but on tradition and custom.
57
How does Oakeshott view the relationship between tradition and society?
Oakeshott believes that remaking tradition damages society, as humans and societies prefer the familiar to the unknown.
58
Describe the conservative approach to economic activity according to Burke.
Burke's conservative approach advocates for economic activity that is constructive and enduring, supported by a stable state that guarantees order.
59
Describe Ayn Rand's view on the role of the state in society.
Ayn Rand believed that the state's role should be limited to acting as a police officer, protecting individual rights against criminals, and confining itself to law, order, and national security.
60
Explain the concept of rational egoism as proposed by Ayn Rand.
Rational egoism is the idea that individuals should pursue their own rational self-interest and happiness as the highest moral purpose of life, treating others as individuals rather than as part of a collective.
61
Define the term 'atomism' in the context of Ayn Rand's philosophy.
Atomism, in Rand's philosophy, refers to the belief that society does not exist as a collective entity, but rather as a collection of individuals each pursuing their own happiness.
62
How did Ayn Rand's background influence her views on socialism and collectivism?
Ayn Rand's upper-middle-class family lost their property during the Russian Revolution, which fostered her hostility towards socialism and the big state.
63
Explain Robert Nozick's critique of wealth redistribution.
Robert Nozick argued that any attempt at social justice through wealth redistribution is an assault on individual liberty and equates to forced labor.
64
Describe the 'Wilt Chamberlain' argument presented by Robert Nozick.
Nozick's 'Wilt Chamberlain' argument illustrates that individuals can earn significantly more than others through voluntary contracts, as Chamberlain did by receiving 25 cents from each spectator, which he earned through his own labor.
65
How does Nozick's view of human nature differ from that of other political philosophers?
Nozick held a more optimistic view of human nature, believing that all people have self-ownership and rationally pursue their own ends and projects.
66
Define the minimalist state according to Robert Nozick.
A minimalist state, as proposed by Nozick, is justified only if it is strictly limited to the protection of person, property, and contract.
67
Explain the significance of individual liberty in Nozick's philosophy.
Individual liberty is a fundamental value in Nozick's philosophy, emphasizing that individuals should be free from legally enforced obligations and able to pursue their own goals.
68
How does Nozick's perspective on community formation differ from traditional views?
Nozick's perspective allows for the emergence of voluntarily formed communities, as long as individuals are free to contract in or out, contrasting with traditional views that may emphasize imposed social structures.
69
Describe the implications of Rand's philosophy for free-market capitalism.
Rand's philosophy supports free-market capitalism as an expression of individualism, arguing that it should not be hindered by the state and that individuals should keep the products of their labor.
70
Explain the relationship between reason and emotion in Rand's philosophy.
Rand argued that following reason requires rejecting emotions, faith, and other forms of authority, advocating for independent thinking.
71
What is the moral purpose of life according to Ayn Rand?
According to Ayn Rand, the highest moral purpose of life is the pursuit of one's own rational self-interest and happiness.
72
Describe the concept of human nature as proposed by Nozick.
Human nature is viewed as egotistical, with individuals driven by a quest for 'self-ownership' that allows them to realize their full potential.
73
Explain the role of the state in public services according to Nozick.
A minarchist state should outsource, renew, and reallocate contracts to private companies that provide public services.
74
How should society be structured according to Nozick?
Society should be geared towards individual self-fulfillment, potentially leading to many small, variable communities that reflect the diverse tastes and philosophies of their members.
75
Define the economic role of a minarchist state according to Nozick.
The minarchist state should detach itself from the economy, acting merely as an arbitrator in disputes between private economic organizations.
76
What is traditional conservatism and its reactionary aspect?
Traditional conservatism is a reactionary ideology influenced by Hobbes, advocating for a feudal hierarchic order of society, and resisting the decline of aristocratic rule.
77
Explain how traditional conservatism was challenged in the 18th century.
In the 18th century, traditional conservatism faced challenges from Enlightenment ideas, the French Revolution, and changing dynamics due to the Industrial Revolution.
78
Describe the non-reactionary aspect of traditional conservatism as articulated by Burke.
Burke argued that conservatism must counter Enlightenment ideas, defending hierarchy, empiricism, tradition, and authority to maintain societal equilibrium, allowing for change after careful consideration; can be seen throughout conservatism of 19th century, which saw adoption of moderate reforms to keep society stable and commitment to free market; outmoded traditions that could spark revolutionary unrest changed by careful empirical deliberation.
79
What is the significance of Oakeshott's view on traditional conservatism?
Oakeshott viewed conservatism as a natural disposition rather than a political ideology, emphasizing the importance of trusted methods and the limitations of human intellect in political philosophy.
80
How did early one-nation conservatism respond to industrialization?
Early one-nation conservatism emerged in response to the social inequalities caused by mass industrialisation in the late 1800s, leading to calls for socialist reform and a shift from laissez-faire policies.
81
What were Disraeli's contributions to one-nation conservatism?
Disraeli drew from Burke's ideas to address tensions between the rich and poor, aiming to secure society and renew national identity through reforms like the Representation of the People Act 1867.
82
Describe the later developments in one-nation conservatism post-1945.
Later one-nation conservatism, associated with Harold Macmillan, invoked paternal ideas from Burke and focused on creating a property-owning democracy while balancing traditional conservative values with socialist planning.
83
What was Macmillan's approach to housing after World War II?
As Churchill's housing minister, Macmillan oversaw the construction of 300,000 houses a year, aiming to foster a property-owning democracy aligned with traditional conservative values.
84
Explain the balance Macmillan sought between economic ideologies.
Macmillan sought a balance between traditional conservative laissez-faire economics and the socialist collectivism of state planning during his tenure as Prime Minister.
85
Describe the belief shared by Burke regarding society.
Burke believed that preserving society is of paramount importance and viewed the effects of unemployment as a threat.
86
Explain the stance of Macmillan's government on tradition.
Macmillan's government demonstrated that it could abandon tradition, exemplified by the Life Peerage Act, which created working life peers, including female peers.
87
Define the ideological influences on modern one-nation conservatism.
Modern one-nation conservatism is informed by modern liberalism, the enabling state, and traditional conservatism.
88
How did Oakeshott view state management in relation to human reason?
Oakeshott disapproved of state management that is rationally informed, arguing that it ignores the limits of human reason.
89
Discuss the social liberalism embraced by modern one-nation conservatism since the 1970s.
Since the 1970s, Tory governments have supported the legalization of homosexuality and abortion, reflecting an embrace of social liberalism.
90
What significant legislation did David Cameron pass in 2013?
David Cameron passed the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act in 2013.
91
Identify the thinkers that influenced New Right conservatism.
New Right conservatism was influenced by thinkers such as Ayn Rand and Robert Nozick.
92
Explain the context in which New Right conservatism emerged in the 1970s.
New Right conservatism emerged in response to political failures, including failing economies, societies, and states, characterized by extensive state intervention and rising public spending.
93
Describe the economic issues that contributed to the rise of New Right conservatism in the UK.
Economic issues included spiraling inflation, rising unemployment, and inefficient nationalized industries, which were seen as failures of extensive state intervention.
94
What societal concerns did New Right conservatism address regarding the welfare state?
New Right conservatism criticized the 'bloated' welfare state and 'dependency culture' that arose from the permissive society of the 1960s.
95
How did New Right thinkers like Rand view individuals in welfare-dependent societies?
Rand believed individuals in welfare-dependent societies had become 'over-indulgent and over-reliant on state welfare', contributing to rising public spending and obstacles to capitalism.
96
What fears did Nozick express regarding the UK in the 1970s?
Nozick feared that the UK was 'ripe for Marxism' due to the obstruction of economic policies by trade union strike action.
97
Identify the scholars associated with neo-conservatism.
Neo-conservatism is associated with American scholars like Irving Kristol and British philosophers like Roger Scruton.
98
Explain the neo-conservative response to social liberalism.
Neo-conservatives aimed to reassert Christian morality and social conservatism, channeling the spirit of Hobbes by emphasizing order, authority, and a strong state.
99
What were the key characteristics of the Thatcher and Reagan governments in the 1980s?
The Thatcher and Reagan governments exhibited a tougher approach to law and order, national defense, immigration, and social issues like abortion and homosexuality.
100
How did neo-liberalism update classical liberal principles?
Neo-liberalism updated classical liberal principles by endorsing free-market policies and limited government intervention, associated with thinkers like von Hayek.
101
What is considered the 'bible' of neo-liberal thinking?
The Road to Serfdom (1944) by von Hayek is regarded as the 'bible' of neo-liberal thinking.
102
Discuss the role of think-tanks like the Adam Smith Institute in the UK.
Think-tanks like the Adam Smith Institute endorsed Hayek's views and promoted neo-liberal ideas in the UK.
103
Describe the goals of the ASI in relation to individualism and state interference.
The ASI aimed to roll back the frontiers of the state to set people free from state interference, expand individual freedom, diminish the dependency culture, and advance a free-market economy.
104
Explain the economic policies associated with the Thatcher and Reagan administrations.
These administrations focused on reducing personal taxation, containing government spending, deregulating industries, and privatizing services to transfer control and ownership from the state to the private sector.
105
Define the traditional conservative view of human nature as expressed by Burke and Oakeshott.
Traditional conservatives take a skeptical view of human nature, highlighting the gap between aspiration and achievement and warning against utopian schemes that overestimate human potential.
106
How does the New Right's perspective on human nature differ from that of traditional conservatives?
The New Right is more optimistic, emphasizing the potential of individuals with initiative and liberty, believing that human potential can be unlocked in a pro-capitalist environment.
107
Describe the traditional conservative view of society.
Traditional conservatives view society as a collection of small communities overseen by a hierarchical structure, valuing tradition and the role of paternalistic elites who exercise inherited power for the majority's benefit.
108
Explain the New Right's perspective on society.
The New Right sees society as a collection of atomized individuals, skeptical of paternalism and preferring a meritocratic society.
109
What is the traditional conservative stance on the role of the state?
Traditional conservatives defend inherited power and the natural ruling class, believing in a responsibility towards the governed and being pragmatic about enlarging the state for social stability.
110
How does the New Right's view of the state contrast with traditional conservatism?
The New Right seeks to reduce state intervention to advance individual freedom, is hostile to aristocratic rule, and believes that ruling classes are too invested in tradition to accept the need for radical change.
111
Define the traditional conservative economic perspective.
Traditional conservatives are skeptical of free-market capitalism, fearing it exacerbates inequality and supports socialism, and are open to state intervention through Keynesian economics and higher taxation.
112
What economic policies does the New Right advocate?
The New Right advocates for free-market capitalism, privatization, deregulation, lower taxation, and reduced state spending.
113
What was the significance of the founding of the Metropolitan Police in 1829?
The founding of the Metropolitan Police is considered the establishment of the first modern police force, aimed at serving and protecting the people of London.
114
Explain the impact of the Repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846.
The Repeal of the Corn Laws was part of the movement towards free trade, removing tariffs on imported grain to lower food prices.
115
What did the Representation of the People Act 1867 achieve?
The Representation of the People Act 1867 allowed a portion of working-class men in cities to vote, while still retaining differences between rural and urban voting rights.
116
Describe the purpose of the Artisan Dwellings Act 1875.
The Artisan Dwellings Act 1875 empowered local authorities to buy slums and redevelop them into safe housing for the working class.
117
What was the significance of the Life Peerage Act 1958?
The Life Peerage Act 1958 increased the Prime Minister's ability to change the House of Lords composition by allowing the creation of life peers, reducing the dominance of hereditary peers.
118
Explain the importance of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013.
The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 established that parliament should value people equally in law, allowing same-sex couples to marry.
119
Describe the forgiving view of human nature according to Michael Oakeshott.
Oakeshott portrayed humans as creatures of habit, instinct, impulse, and emotion, with a fondness for the communal pleasures of family. He believed that humans are not motivated by visionary ideological projects but prefer the familiar to the unknown.
120
What is the responsibility of beneficiaries of inequality according to Burke and Oakeshott?
Burke and Oakeshott believed that beneficiaries of inequality have a responsibility to the majority of society, stating that they should enlighten and protect the weaker members.
121
What warning did Burke give regarding the upper classes' responsibilities?
Burke warned that if the upper classes neglect their responsibilities, it could unleash tensions that might overturn existing society, which he used to explain the French Revolution.
122
How did later conservatives like Disraeli view paternalism?
Later conservatives, such as Tory leader Disraeli, emphasized that effective paternalism is vital for maintaining social order and responsibility.
123
What is Oakeshott's view on the role of the state in relation to society?
Oakeshott believed that by putting an end to anarchy, where life is nasty and brutish, the state allows society to emerge. The role of society is then to ensure that the state does not become ubiquitous.
124
What is Oakeshott's perspective on dogma and its impact on the state?
Oakeshott rejected dogma, believing it would better equip the state to aggregate and reconcile various interests, promoting consensus. This outcome aligns with what Disraeli termed 'one nation', characterized by harmony and stability.
125
How does free-market capitalism contradict traditional conservative values?
Free-market capitalism contradicts traditional values, especially given the skeptical view of human nature. Conservatism worships order, stability, and community, yet free-market capitalism promotes risk, innovation, and iconoclasm.
126
Who is regarded as the father of conservatism and what is his key text?
Edmund Burke is regarded as the father of conservatism, with his key text being 'Reflections on the Revolution in France' (1790), which opposes the French Revolution.
127
What was Burke's political background and its influence on his thinking?
Burke was a Whig MP, and his thinking was based on the Whig principle of opposition to absolute, arbitrary power.
128
What was Burke's stance on the American Revolution?
Burke supported the American Revolution, as its aim was to protect the ancient rights of the people, which existed before the monarchy in London began to tax them without authority; he believed in change to conserve.
129
Why did Burke oppose the French Revolution?
Burke opposed the French Revolution because it was based on theory and idealism, aiming to destroy the collective wisdom of ages by discarding existing institutions and traditions to create a new society, which he believed was not based on empiricism.
130
What is Burke's view on human nature?
Burke holds a skeptical view of human nature, believing that humanity is marked by a gap between aspiration and achievement, and is unable to achieve perfection.
131
What is Burke's perspective on the state?
Burke believes the state should be constitutional but driven by an aristocratic elite, reared to rule in the interests of all.
132
How does Burke view society?
Burke views society as organic, comprising a host of small communities (little platoons) that check the power of the state.
133
What updates did Oakeshott make to the conservative approach to human nature and gradual reform?
Oakeshott updated the conservative approach to human nature and view on gradual reform in 'Rationalism in Politics and Other Essays' (1962) and 'The Politics of Faith and the Politics of Scepticism' (1996).
134
How did the experiences of the Second World War and the post-war welfare state influence Oakeshott's views?
The experience of both the Second World War and the post-war welfare state led Oakeshott to emphasize the importance of pragmatism by governments; he also rejected the ideas of utopian societies, both left and right wing.
135
What is Oakeshott's view on the economy?
Oakeshott believes that free-markets are volatile and unpredictable, requiring pragmatic moderation by the state.
136
What is the New Right's perspective on society?
Society should be meritocratic, not hierarchical.
137
What is the role of the state according to the New Right?
The state's role is limited to acting as a police officer, protecting individual rights against criminals.
138
How does the New Right view human nature?
Human nature is objectivist; it is guided by rational self-interest and the pursuit of self-fulfillment.
139
What is the New Right's stance on the role of the state in promoting positive liberty?
The state should confine itself to law, order, and national security; any attempt to promote positive liberty should be resisted.
140
What is the New Right's view on the existence of society?
Society doesn't really exist and is atomistic; any attempt to restrict individuals in the name of society should be challenged.
141
What rights do individuals have according to Nozick's perspective?
People have rights that existed before the social contract/state.
142
What is Nozick's view on individual earnings?
Individuals should be able to keep the fruits of their labor, earned in a free market through hard work and talents.
143
What role does a minimal state play in society according to Nozick?
A minimal state allows for the emergence and peaceful coexistence of voluntarily formed communities.
144
What is the significance of Nozick's work Anarchy, State and Utopia (1974)?
Can be seen as attack on socialism and wealth redistribution.
145
What was Nozick's stance on higher taxes in relation to the post-war state?
Nozick rejected the higher taxes that an expanded post-war state required from its citizens.
146
What was Nozick's intention in writing against the new liberal ideas of John Rawls?
Nozick wrote to challenge the new liberal ideas proposed by Rawls.
147
What psychological aspects does Oakeshott focus on regarding human imperfection?
Oakeshott emphasizes the psychological and intellectual aspects of human imperfection, suggesting that political philosophy should not be expected to provide success.
148
How does Oakeshott's view on change differ from Burke's perspective?
While Burke argued for change to conserve and maintain an organic society, Oakeshott is less optimistic, believing that the reality of humankind's intellectual limitations means we should embrace a politics of scepticism.
149
What does Oakeshott suggest we should be guided by in politics?
Oakeshott suggests that we should be guided by experience due to the limitations of human intellect.
150
What does the term 'failing' states refer to in the context of western democracies?
It involves a sense that western democracies are becoming ungovernable.
151
How were the economic policies of both Conservative and Labour governments obstructed in the UK during the 1970s?
They were seriously obstructed by trade union strike action, which sparked Nozick's fear that the UK was 'ripe for Marxism'.
152
What wider global developments contributed to fears in the 1970s regarding Marxism?
Fears were sparked by the USA’s loss in the Vietnam War and the advancement of Marxist forces in south-east Asia and southern Africa.
153
Who is the influential New Right philosopher known for her critiques of statism and collectivism?
Ayn Rand, known for her works such as Atlas Shrugged (1957) and The Virtue of Selfishness (1964), advocates for individualism and free-market capitalism.
