Pragmatism Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is pragmatism?
Decisions should be made in a flexible way on the bases of what works rather ideological or dogmatic thinking
How was the emergence of conservatism pragmatic?
In response to the upheaval of French revolution
What type of change do conservatives prefer?
Gradual change as they are wary of major reforms - ‘changing to conserve’
What did Oakeshott believe the state shouldn’t do?
Try to change the lives of its citizens through utopian ideology ‘The office of government is not to impose other beliefs’
What did Michael Oakeshott believe being a conservative was? (quote)
On being Conservative - ‘To be conservative is to prefer the familiar to the unknown
How does opposition to radical change and human imperfection link?
Human beings are fallible and limited in their capacity to understand and engineer complex social systems
Why do conservatives believe some change is necessary?
Maintain stability to not risk revolution
How does pragmatism and tradition link?
Accumulated wisdom of history and tradition holds more practical value than abstract ideas
How does pragmatism and organic society link?
Society is a complex and organic entity where each part has evolved to play a specific time. Radical change can destabilise long-standing systems
How is the emergence of one nation conservatism pragmatic?
Social changes due to industrialisation and capitalism means some degree of state intervention and reform was necessary to prevent social unrest due to socialism
Is the new right pragmatic?
No, favoured a ideological stance driven by a strong belief in negative freedom
Why did one nation conservatism emphasises nationalism and nationhood?
Cohesive nation and a strong national identity could unite classes and reduce support for socialist ideas which advocated for class based unrest
How did the new right view ONC approaches?
Capitulation to socialist ideas and a dilution of conservative principles eg view of Thatcher towards post-war consensus
