Conservative Core Themes Flashcards
(130 cards)
1
Q
What was Conservatism a by-product of?
A
The Enlightenment, an intellectual movement during the 18th century
2
Q
What did many view Conservatism as seeking to reverse?
A
The central principles of Enlightenment philosophy
3
Q
Which thinker was in favor of concentrated political power?
A
Hobbes
4
Q
What did Burke favor in terms of social structure?
A
Aristocratic privilege
5
Q
What conclusion did Hobbes reach regarding government?
A
A ‘government by consent’ was needed
6
Q
Which economic philosophy did Burke endorse?
A
Economic liberalism of Adam Smith
7
Q
What significant event did Burke support?
A
The American Revolution
8
Q
What were Hobbes and Burke concerned about?
A
The consequences of the Enlightenment movement
9
Q
What do conservatives emphasize about human nature?
A
Human fragility and human imperfection
Conservatives stress that human nature is fixed and flawed, contrasting with more optimistic ideologies.
10
Q
How do conservatives view the malleability of human nature?
A
They reject the view that human nature is malleable
Conservatives believe that human nature cannot be reshaped within an ideal environment.
11
Q
What did Michael Oakeshott describe human nature as?
A
A ‘philosophy of imperfection’
This perspective reflects the conservative belief in the constancy and imperfection of human nature.
12
Q
True or False: Conservatives believe that human nature can be reshaped in an ideal environment.
A
False
Conservatives maintain that human nature is constant and cannot be altered significantly.
13
Q
Fill in the blank: Conservatives view human nature as _______.
A
constant and imperfect
This contrasts with more optimistic views held by other ideologies.
14
Q
What was Hobbes’s view of human nature?
A
Cynical view, seeing it as egotistical and ruthless in pursuit of self-interest
Hobbes rejected the liberal idea of a respectful nature.
15
Q
How did Hobbes’s view of the state of nature differ from Locke’s?
A
Hobbes argued that life in the state of nature was far more negative than Locke’s description
Locke’s version is more optimistic about human nature.
16
Q
What did Hobbes believe marked relations between human beings?
A
Envy, hatred, and violent conflict
This reflects his cynical view of human interactions.
17
Q
What capacity did Hobbes believe would redeem the human condition?
A
The capacity to reason
He thought reasoning would lead individuals to recognize the need for order.
18
Q
What realization did Hobbes believe warring individuals would come to?
A
That the state of nature was an obstacle to self-fulfilment
This realization would lead to a desire for order.
19
Q
What would reason lead people to achieve, according to Hobbes?
A
A state that ensured order and security
This would allow individuals to pursue their self-interest more efficiently.
20
Q
What was Burke’s view of human nature in response to the French Revolution?
A
Burke dismissed the vision of a utopian society in which human misery was erased.
21
Q
According to Burke, what should be the nature of change?
A
Change should be slow and gradual.
22
Q
Why did Burke advocate for slow and gradual change?
A
To allow us to revise our approach and reset if necessary.
23
Q
True or False: Burke believed that human nature could be perfected through revolutionary change.
A
False.
24
Q
What is Oakeshott’s view of human nature?
A
Oakeshott’s view is that humanity is ‘fallible not terrible’ and ‘imperfect not immoral’.
He believes that despite failures, humans are still capable of kindness and generosity.
25
How does Oakeshott's view of human nature differ from Hobbesian rationalism?
Oakeshott's view portrays humans as creatures of habit and communal pleasures, unlike Hobbesian rationalism which sees them as brutally selfish.
## Footnote
This highlights a more positive perspective on human nature.
26
What do Burke and Oakeshott reject about human nature?
They reject the notion that human nature is mercilessly individualistic.
## Footnote
Instead, they view humans as sociable creatures.
27
What is the significance of small communities according to Burke and Oakeshott?
Small communities provide a sense of belonging for individuals.
## Footnote
Burke referred to these communities as 'little platoons'.
28
Fill in the blank: Oakeshott insisted that humanity is __________ not terrible.
fallible
29
Fill in the blank: Burke referred to small communities as '__________'.
little platoons
30
What do thinkers like Rand and Nozick stress in the New Right perspective?
Individual freedom, autonomy, and self-determination
## Footnote
Rand and Nozick emphasized these themes in their works.
31
In which work did Rand express her view on individual freedom?
The Fountainhead (1943)
## Footnote
Rand stated, 'I recognise no obligation to men except one: to respect their freedom'.
32
How does the New Right interpret Hobbes' view of egotism?
As a source of a vibrant capitalist economy and contentment
## Footnote
They believe egotism contributes positively to society.
33
What do proponents of the New Right agree is necessary for dynamic individuals?
Periodic restraint from formal authority
## Footnote
This belief underscores their views on governance and individualism.
34
What do Hobbes and Burke reject regarding society?
They dismiss any notion that society is 'natural' or predates the state.
## Footnote
This perspective highlights their belief that society is constructed rather than inherent.
35
According to Hobbes and Burke, what is necessary for society to exist?
Law and order provided by the state.
## Footnote
Their sceptical view of human nature leads to the conclusion that society cannot function without a governing authority.
36
What historical events influenced Hobbes and Burke's views on law and order?
The English Civil War and French Revolution.
## Footnote
These events served as examples of how the collapse of law and order can lead to the disappearance of societal aspects.
37
How do conservatives view 'natural' rights, laws, and societies?
As dangerous fantasies.
## Footnote
This reflects a fundamental skepticism about the idea that rights and social structures can exist without a formalized state.
38
Fill in the blank: Hobbes and Burke thought society was impossible without _______.
[law and order].
39
What do traditional conservatives like Burke and Oakeshott think about society?
They view society as an assortment of local and largely apolitical mini communities
## Footnote
This perspective emphasizes the importance of small, localized groups in the structure of society.
40
What are examples of 'little platoons' according to traditional conservatives?
Local churches, clubs, teams, and families
## Footnote
These entities serve as foundational social units that contribute to individual security and community cohesion.
41
According to Oakeshott, what role do 'little platoons' play for their members?
They provide their members with security
## Footnote
This security is both physical and psychological, fostering a sense of belonging.
42
How do 'little platoons' impact individual competitiveness?
They moderate the competitive egotism of individuals
## Footnote
This moderation is seen as essential to maintaining a stable society.
43
What did Hobbes argue regarding competitive egotism?
It can prohibit society
## Footnote
Hobbes believed that unchecked individualism could lead to chaos and conflict.
44
What is one of the functions of 'little platoons' in relation to the state?
They moderate the power of the state
## Footnote
This function serves to balance individual freedoms with state authority.
45
What type of society cannot be planned or created?
Organic society
## Footnote
An organic society emerges gradually and organically.
46
How do conservatives view society in comparison to a machine?
Like a plant
## Footnote
This perspective emphasizes natural growth and development.
47
What does an organic society require for its establishment?
Discipline and attention
## Footnote
These elements are necessary for the society to flourish.
48
What must be established for an organic society to be possible?
Law, order, and authority
## Footnote
These foundational elements support the growth of an organic society.
49
What is one key reason why conservatives value tradition?
The organic society
## Footnote
Scruton compared society's development to a plant, suggesting that its current state is influenced by its historical context.
50
How did Burke describe the ideal society?
As a partnership between the living, the dead, and those yet to be born
## Footnote
This concept emphasizes continuity and connection across generations.
51
What is the practical purpose of the conservative 'partnership' described by Burke?
To guide society by practical experience rather than abstract ideas
## Footnote
This approach acknowledges the limitations of human intelligence.
52
Which Christian teaching do Burke and Oakeshott argue provides the best moral basis for society?
Original sin
## Footnote
They believe it offers a realistic understanding of human nature.
53
What is the conservative view of society regarding inequality of outcome?
It defends inequality of outcome, seeing unequal wealth and power as natural and desirable.
## Footnote
This perspective is rooted in the belief that some degree of inequality is essential for maintaining social order.
54
Who argued that the beneficiaries of inequality have a responsibility to the majority of society?
Burke
## Footnote
Burke emphasized the moral obligation of the wealthy and powerful to support and protect the less fortunate.
55
What is the term used to describe the relationship where the upper classes are expected to protect the weaker members of society?
Paternalism
## Footnote
Paternalism implies a protective role of the upper classes over the lower classes.
56
What happens if the upper classes neglect their responsibilities according to Burke?
It will unleash tensions that can overturn the existing society.
## Footnote
Burke warned that neglect could lead to social unrest and instability.
57
What did Tory leader Benjamin Disraeli mean by saying 'the palace is not safe if the cottage is not happy'?
The well-being of the upper classes is dependent on the happiness of the lower classes.
## Footnote
Disraeli highlighted the interconnectedness of social classes and the importance of addressing the needs of the less fortunate.
58
What does a conservative society stress regarding property?
The importance of private property
## Footnote
This contrasts with the liberal view of private property.
59
How is private property viewed in a conservative society?
As complementing several aspects of society
## Footnote
This includes bequeathing, social institutions, wealth, and stability.
60
What is the significance of inheritance in the conservative view of property?
It fits with Burke’s partnership between the dead, living, and yet to be born
## Footnote
This concept emphasizes continuity across generations.
61
How does private property relate to social institutions in a conservative framework?
It provides a tangible basis for Burke’s ‘little platoons’
## Footnote
'Little platoons' refer to small, local social groups that form the fabric of society.
62
What is the association of property with wealth in conservative thought?
It is often the basis for paternalism
## Footnote
Paternalism refers to the practice of governing individuals in a manner similar to that of a parent.
63
What role does property play in societal stability according to conservatives?
It is a force for stability and the avoidance of revolution
## Footnote
Property is seen as a means to maintain order and prevent drastic societal changes.
64
What perspective does the New Right reflect?
The influence of neo-liberalism
65
How does the New Right view society?
As a kaleidoscope of autonomous individuals
66
What is the New Right's stance on paternalism?
They believe it is patronising and creates a dependency culture
67
What type of inequality do the New Right tolerate?
Inequality that benefits those who have earned it, not inherited it
68
What key concept do the New Right insist on regarding merit?
Meritocratic, not aristocratic
69
What is considered essential to the good society by the New Right?
Private property
70
According to Rand and Nozick, what is vital for property rights?
That they are enjoyed by the majority of individuals
71
What do Rand and Nozick emphasize regarding property rights?
Self-realisation and determination
72
What social value does property stress according to the New Right?
The importance of heterosexual marriage
73
What policy did the 1979 conservative government implement to reward traditional families?
Marriage tax allowance
74
What did the 1979 conservative government prohibit in schools?
Teaching about homosexual relationships
75
What type of economy do conservatives generally support?
Fundamentally capitalist economy
## Footnote
This support is linked to their defense of private property.
76
How do conservatives differ regarding capitalism?
They differ over the type of capitalism they prefer.
77
What do traditional conservatives generally support?
Capitalism and private enterprise
## Footnote
They acknowledge the potential negative effects of laissez-faire capitalism.
78
What do traditional conservatives believe about unchecked capitalism?
It can damage society by exacerbating inequality.
79
What did Oakeshott complain about regarding market forces?
They threaten rural areas and village communities.
80
Fill in the blank: Traditional conservatives acknowledge that laissez-faire capitalism can damage society by exacerbating _______.
inequality
81
How do traditional conservatives view laissez-faire capitalism?
As potentially iconoclastic and damaging to society.
82
What do traditional conservatives tend to endorse regarding capitalism?
A more regulated or moderated form of capitalism
## Footnote
This approach contrasts with unregulated free-market capitalism.
83
Whose ideas are similar to the moderated capitalism endorsed by traditional conservatives?
Liberal economist John Maynard Keynes
## Footnote
Keynes advocated for government intervention to stabilize the economy.
84
What did conservative prime minister Harold Macmillan believe about the best economy?
It represents a compromise between free-market capitalism and socialist state ownership
## Footnote
Macmillan's view emphasized a balanced economic approach.
85
What term did Harold Macmillan use to describe the balance between capitalism and socialism?
The ‘middle way’
## Footnote
This concept aimed to create a harmonious economic system.
86
What type of economy did Harold Macmillan believe the 'middle way' would result in?
A ‘mixed economy’
## Footnote
A mixed economy incorporates elements of both capitalism and socialism.
87
What two outcomes did Macmillan believe a mixed economy would sustain?
Full employment and rising levels of public spending
## Footnote
These outcomes are essential for maintaining social stability.
88
What societal concept was vital to Harold Macmillan's vision of a mixed economy?
A ‘one nation’ society
## Footnote
This idea emphasizes unity and collective welfare within the country.
89
Who is a key neo-liberal philosopher influencing the New Right's views on economy?
Friedrich von Hayek
## Footnote
Hayek's ideas emphasize the importance of free markets and limited government intervention.
90
Which New Right thinker is known for having a sympathetic view of market forces?
Robert Nozick
## Footnote
Nozick's philosophy supports individual rights and free-market principles.
91
Which two political leaders are associated with New Right economics during the 1980s?
Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan
## Footnote
Their policies promoted free-market capitalism and deregulation.
92
What economic policy is strongly linked to New Right economics?
Privatisation of state-owned industries
## Footnote
This approach aims to increase efficiency and competition.
93
How do New Right supporters justify their economic measures?
As practical responses to difficult economic circumstances
## Footnote
They argue that these measures are necessary for economic recovery.
94
Which historical figure's admiration is recalled by New Right supporters to defend their economic views?
Edmund Burke
## Footnote
Burke respected Adam Smith’s laissez-faire approach to the economy.
95
What do New Right supporters argue about the state's role in the economy?
The state should withdraw from the economic arena
## Footnote
They believe this allows the state to focus on its true, conservative purpose.
96
Fill in the blank: New Right economics is strongly associated with _______.
free-market capitalism
## Footnote
This includes policies that promote minimal government intervention in the economy.
97
What do conservatives believe is the main role of the state?
To ensure safety and security
## Footnote
This view emphasizes a preventative role rather than a proactive one.
98
How did Michael Oakeshott describe the state’s role?
To ‘prevent the bad rather than create the good’
## Footnote
This highlights a conservative perspective on governance.
99
Which philosopher's theories do conservatives support regarding authority and safety?
Thomas Hobbes
## Footnote
Hobbes argued that safety and security are impossible without authority.
100
What do conservatives believe is necessary for law and order?
A state
## Footnote
They argue that without a state, there can be no authority or law and order.
101
What is the conservative view on natural society and authority?
Authority and law and order are essential components
## Footnote
This belief underpins the necessity of a state.
102
How do conservatives view the formal authority of the state?
As the precondition of society
## Footnote
This view connects to their beliefs about human nature.
103
What is the conservative perspective on human nature?
Humans can behave in irrational and frightening ways
## Footnote
This fear drives the need for a strong state.
104
How do conservatives differ from liberals and socialists?
In their views on state structure.
105
What is the perspective of thinkers like Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott on state hierarchy?
They were comfortable with a state that was openly hierarchal and elitist.
106
What did Hobbes argue was necessary for maintaining peace and security?
The concentration of the state’s power into a ‘leviathan’.
107
What was Hobbes' belief regarding dispersed power?
It would reproduce the horrific divisions that made the state necessary.
108
What type of state has historically received more support than Hobbes' concentrated state?
An aristocratic state limited by clear, formal rules.
109
What idea did Burke support regarding the ruling class?
A natural hierarchy or ruling class born and bred to rule the state.
110
What responsibility did Burke believe the ruling class should exercise?
Paternalistic responsibility for society.
111
What limitation did Burke place on aristocratic and hierarchical government?
It must be limited by a constitution.
112
What did Burke believe should restrain the aristocratic government?
The existence of a strong, confident society, guaranteed by ‘little platoons’.
113
How did Oakeshott describe the relationship between society and state?
As ‘the limiting of leviathan’.
114
What role does Oakeshott believe society plays in relation to the state?
To ensure that the state does not become ‘nasty and brutish’.
115
Fill in the blank: Hobbes believed that to maintain order, the state must be a _______.
leviathan
116
True or False: Burke believed that a hierarchical government should have no limitations.
False
117
What did Oakeshott believe the state allows society to emerge from?
Anarchy, where life is ‘nasty and brutish’.
118
What did Burke and Oakeshott believe regarding the guidance of the state?
The state should not be guided by dogma or doctrine, but rather by empiricism
## Footnote
Oakeshott emphasized a preference for what is known rather than what is envisaged.
119
How did Oakeshott describe the state using his nautical metaphor?
The state is like a ship without an agreed port of destination, aiming to stay afloat by taking the safest course
## Footnote
This metaphor illustrates the conservative view of governance.
120
How do socialists and liberals view the state, according to Oakeshott?
As a means to an end
## Footnote
This contrasts with the conservative view of the state.
121
How do conservatives view the state, according to Oakeshott?
As an end in itself
## Footnote
This perspective emphasizes the intrinsic value of the state.
122
What did Oakeshott support regarding Burke's idea on experience?
Experience is more important than abstract theory
## Footnote
This idea promotes a cautious approach to change.
123
What does Oakeshott suggest about the pace of change pursued by the state?
Change should be slow and respectful to our 'love of the familiar'
## Footnote
This approach aims to secure harmony and stability.
124
What concept did Disraeli contribute to the idea of governance discussed by Oakeshott?
'One nation'
## Footnote
This concept emphasizes unity and collective identity within the state.
125
Who criticized Oakeshott's views for being too passive and vulnerable to enemies of conservatism?
Robert Nozick
## Footnote
Nozick is associated with the New Right perspective on conservatism.
126
What characterizes the New Right state in contrast to previous conservative thought?
Less empirical and more explicitly ideological
## Footnote
This shift is evident in the political strategies of leaders like Margaret Thatcher.
127
What did Margaret Thatcher claim about her political approach?
She claimed to be a ‘conviction politician not a consensus politician’
## Footnote
This reflects the ideological stance of the New Right.
128
According to New Right thinkers like Rand, what is the relationship between state size and strength?
The ‘small state is the strong state’
## Footnote
A smaller state is believed to be more effective in maintaining security and order.
129
What does Nozick suggest should be done to the state?
‘Roll back the frontiers of the state’ via privatisation and deregulation
## Footnote
This aims to enable the state to focus more on law, order, security, and defense.
130
What is the intended outcome of Nozick's proposals for the state?
A state that is ‘leaner but fitter’
## Footnote
This implies a more efficient government focused on core responsibilities.
