CONSERVATISM AND SOCIETY Flashcards
What do all conservatives agree over society
Deny any possibility of a utopian society
What themes are in a conservatives society
Localism
Organicism
Empiricism
Tradition
Hierarchy
Judaeo-christian morality
Property
What is the conservative view of society in terms of localism
See society as a collection of localised communities which provides individuals with security, status and inspiration
What is the conservative view of society in terms of organicism
society is not something that can be created, but emerges gradually and organically - life is subject to forces beyond the scope of reason so can never be truely predicted
What is the conservative view of society in terms of empiricism
Deal with society in a practical, evidential fashion with no clear view of how it will evolve - DIRECT opposition to other ideologies
what does the conservative society aim to do
“stay afloat” rather than sail towards a specific destiny which could be an illusion
What is the conservative view of society in terms of tradition
Customs and habit provide security.
What does history and experience shape
whatever changes become necessary - but must be slow, not drastic and respectful
What is the conservative view of society in terms of hierarchy
see society as less equal because imperfections of humanity lead to inequalities - the wiser and stronger will establish a hierarchy of power but will have a compromise of paternalism
What do the stronger in society have
A natural responsibility for the weak
What is the conservative view of society in terms of judaeo - christian morality
Strong attachment to religion, strong emphasis on marriage - Belief in the original sin
What is the conservative view of society in terms of property
Respect for property closely tied to tradition and continuity - property is inherited, providing a degree of stability in an imperfect world
Why is there a connection between property and paternalistic society
To discourage revolution property owners should have some concern for the less fortunate as they have a state in society to protect
