To what extent do conservatives have a common view of human nature? Flashcards
(16 cards)
What do traditional conservatives believe about human nature?
Traditional conservatives view humans as morally and intellectually flawed, seeing them as weak, irrational, and dependent on security.
What is the key thinker associated with traditional conservatism?
Edmund Burke
Burke believed in the ‘crooked timber of humanity’ and valued tradition over reason.
How do neo-liberals view human nature?
Neo-liberals see individuals as rational, self-interested, and capable of making their own choices.
What is the key thinker associated with neo-liberalism?
Ayn Rand
Rand argued for rational egoism, believing individuals thrive when free from state interference.
What is a core disagreement between traditional conservatives and neo-liberals?
The disagreement centers on whether humans are fundamentally flawed or free individuals.
What do One Nation conservatives believe about human nature?
One Nation conservatives believe humans lack full rationality and need guidance and security.
What is the key thinker associated with One Nation conservatism?
Michael Oakeshott
Oakeshott argued that humans should rely on pragmatic tradition rather than complex theories.
What do neo-conservatives believe about human imperfection?
Neo-conservatives believe in human imperfection, especially moral weakness, which justifies strong law and order.
What is the key thinker associated with neo-conservatism?
Roger Scruton
Scruton emphasized the need for authority and traditional values to stabilize flawed individuals.
What is the extent of agreement between One Nation conservatives and neo-conservatives?
Both view humans as morally fallible and dependent, agreeing that humans need restraint.
What do traditional conservatives believe about the limits of reason?
Traditional conservatives distrust radical ideas and overconfidence in human reason, favoring tradition and pragmatism.
What is the key thinker associated with the limits of reason in traditional conservatism?
Edmund Burke
Burke opposed the French Revolution for its abstract theory, favoring practical wisdom.
What do neo-conservatives believe about ideological liberalism?
Neo-conservatives distrust ideological liberalism, especially cultural relativism, believing in clear social boundaries.
What is the extent of agreement on the limits of reason among conservatives?
Most conservatives see human nature as needing restraint and avoid utopian thinking, despite some neoliberal differences.
What is the overall judgment on the differences among conservatives regarding human nature?
Conservatives fundamentally differ on whether humans are flawed or rational, with a deep divide between traditionalists and neoliberals.
What do most conservatives agree on regarding reason and human behavior?
Most agree that unlimited reason is dangerous and that human behavior must be guided by society or morality.
