Disraeli - Conservatism

Question 1

Human Nature

Answer 1

Humans are social beings who naturally form communities and classes. People have different needs based on their social position, requiring leadership to unify them. Emphasised the importance of paternalistic leadership to guide and care for the less fortunate.

Explains modern conservative emphasis on social responsibility and cohesion; influences current ideas of ‘compassionate conservatism’ balancing order and welfare.

Question 2

The State

Answer 2

The state should act as a ‘father figure’, protecting all classes and preventing social conflict. Government must promote social harmony through reform and welfare to avoid division. Favoured pragmatic intervention to address social issues, unlike traditional laissez-faire conservatism.

Reflected in modern conservative welfare policies aiming to reduce inequality without radical change; relevant to debates on the role of the state in managing society.

Question 3

Society and Authority

Answer 3

Society is an organic whole, made up of interconnected classes. Authority should be responsible and benevolent, acting to preserve social unity. Strong leadership is essential to prevent class conflict and maintain order.

Shapes contemporary conservative views on leadership and social responsibility; highlights tensions between class divisions and national unity today.

Question 4

Economy and Property

Answer 4

Supported private property as key to social stability, but accepted state role in addressing poverty. Believed in pragmatic reforms to improve working-class conditions without undermining capitalism. Economic policy should balance wealth creation with social responsibility.

One-Nation approach influences current conservative policies on welfare and economic management; important in discussions on capitalism’s social limits.

Question 5

Freedom and Rights

Answer 5

Freedom must be balanced by social duties and the need for order. Rights are not absolute but should reflect responsibility to society and community. Emphasised stability over individualism.

Relevant to debates on balancing civil liberties with public order and welfare; contrasts with more individualistic liberal views.

Question 6

Equality and Class

Answer 6

Acknowledged natural class differences but argued for reducing sharp divisions. Promoted social reform to prevent class conflict and promote unity. Favoured a hierarchical society with obligations between classes.

Basis of modern conservative social policies aimed at bridging class gaps; influences debates on social cohesion and inequality.

Question 7

Tradition and Change

Answer 7

Valued tradition but accepted gradual reform to maintain social stability. Change should be pragmatic and aimed at preventing social unrest. Reforms were a means to conserve society by adapting to new realities.

Justifies modern conservative approaches to controlled reform and adapting tradition; important in ongoing debates about reforming institutions without upheaval.

Question 8

Power and Authority

Answer 8

Power should be exercised responsibly with a focus on social unity. Authority derives from leadership that respects tradition but is willing to act. Effective authority balances strength with compassion.

Influences ideas of strong, yet caring leadership in conservative politics today; highlights need for legitimacy and public trust in authority.