Conservatism Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the core principle of Conservatism?
Preserving tradition, hierarchy, and order while favoring gradual reform over radical change.
Who is considered the father of traditional Conservatism?
Edmund Burke, who emphasized organic society, pragmatism, and skepticism of radical change.
What is Burke’s concept of “little platoons”?
The idea that society is best organized through small, local communities (e.g., family, church) rather than state control.
What is the difference between traditional and One Nation Conservatism?
Traditional Conservatism focuses on hierarchy and authority, while One Nation (Disraeli) adds paternalism to prevent revolution.
How does Michael Oakeshott view human nature?
Humans are imperfect and unpredictable, so politics should be pragmatic, not ideological.
What is Ayn Rand’s influence on the New Right?
Her libertarian ideas (e.g., individualism, free markets) inspired Thatcher’s rejection of state intervention.
What is Thatcherism?
A blend of neoliberal economics (free markets, privatization) and social authoritarianism (strong state on law & order).
How did Thatcher challenge One Nation Conservatism?
She rejected paternalism, favoring individualism, self-reliance, and reduced welfare
What is the New Right?
A fusion of neoliberalism (free markets) and neoconservatism (traditional values, strong state).
What is Robert Nozick’s “minimal state”?
The state should only protect against force/theft (influenced Thatcher/Reagan’s small-government policies).
How do conservatives view human nature?
Pessimistic—humans are flawed, selfish, and need order (contrasts with liberal optimism).
What is paternalism in Conservatism?
The elite should govern in the best interests of society (e.g., Disraeli’s social reforms).
What is the conservative view on property?
Property ownership promotes stability and responsibility (Burke, Thatcher).
How do conservatives justify inequality?
Natural hierarchy rewards merit and maintains social cohesion (vs. socialist equality).
What is the difference between neoliberals and neoconservatives?
Neoliberals focus on free markets; neoconservatives stress tradition, authority, and nationalism
How has Cameron’s “modern Conservatism” differed from Thatcherism?
More socially liberal (e.g., gay marriage) but kept fiscal conservatism (austerity).
What is “compassionate Conservatism”?
A softer approach (e.g., Cameron’s Big Society) blending individualism with community support
How does Conservatism view change?
Prefers gradual reform (“change to conserve”) to avoid chaos (Burke’s “evolution not revolution”).
What is the conservative stance on the economy?
Generally pro-capitalism but split: One Nation accepts some intervention; New Right favors laissez-faire.
How does Boris Johnson’s Conservatism differ from traditional Conservatism?
Populist, high-spending (e.g., levelling up), but nationalist (Brexit) and socially traditional.
