Edmund Burke Flashcards
(12 cards)
When was Edmund Burke alive?
1729-1797
When and what was his book?
Reflections on the Revolutions in France- 1790
What is Burke considered to be for the ideology?
The Father of Conservatism
What was his opinion of human imperfection?
Fallibility- likely to fail more than succeed
What did Burke think is better than theory and idealism?
Empiricism and tradition
Aristocracy and localism
How should society and the state evolve?
Organicism
More akin to a plant than a machine
The ruling class is inevitable and desirable
Mysterious Dynamicism
Why was Burke against idealistic societies?
Based on unrealistic view of human nature
What was his opinion on change?
Necessary to conserve
Must proceed based on facts and expirience
Must be cautious and organic
How should society be structured?
‘Little platoons’
Small diverse and autonomous communities
‘Acknowledge, nurture, and prune… the crooked timber of humanity’
What is Burke’s quote on society?
‘Little platoons’
What is Burke’s quote on human nature?’
‘Acknowledge, nurture, and prune… the crooked timber of humanity’
What events took place in Burke’s lifetime?
French Revolution- against
American War of Independence- for
Whig MP
Defended Irish tenants from extortionate landlords
Impeachment of Governor General of Bengal
Adam Smith- Wealth of Nations- free trade
