Political Parties: Conservative Party Ideology and Policy

Question 1

What is One-Nation conservatism?

Answer 1

Belief in pragmatism and gradual improvements founded on experience and existing institutions. Form of collectivist or paternalist conservatism which favoured pluralism and social inclusion. It also believes that, while authority should be centralised, the state should care for the neediest

Question 2

What is paternalism?

Answer 2

Where power and authority are held centrally but the state acts benevolently, caring for the neediest. Said to be a key characteristic of traditional one-nation conservatism

Question 3

What is conservatism?

Answer 3

A loose ideology favouring a pragmatic approach to dealing with problems, while seeking to preserve the status quo

Question 4

What are one-nation Tories committed to?

Answer 4

• Mixed economy (Keynesianism)
• More significant state intervention where necessary
• Slow, gradual change
• Internationalism
• Increasing European integration
• Support for a universal welfare state

Question 5

What is Thatcherism?

Answer 5

An ideological approach combining a free-market, neo-liberal economic policy with a more orthodox conservative social policy in areas such as the family and law and order

Question 6

What is neo-liberalism?

Answer 6

A political ideology closely related to classical liberalism. Neo-liberals stress the importance of the free-market, individual rights and limited government

Question 7

What is monetarism?

Answer 7

An economic theory advocating controlling the money supply as a means of keeping inflation in check

Question 8

What are the differences between one-nation conservatism and Thatcherism?

Answer 8

One-nation conservatism:
 - Pragmatic
 - Incremental change
 - Paternalistic
 - Mixed economy
Thatcherism:
 - Dogmatic
 - Radical change
 - Individualistic
 - Free-market economy