To what extent do socialists have a common view of human nature? Flashcards
(21 cards)
What do revolutionary and social democratic socialists believe about human nature?
Both believe human nature is fundamentally positive—that people are social beings who thrive in collective environments.
What is the belief of revolutionary socialism regarding human cooperation?
Revolutionary socialists believe humans are naturally cooperative, but capitalism distorts this by promoting competition and alienation.
What is the key thinker associated with revolutionary socialism?
Karl Marx
What did Karl Marx argue about capitalism’s effect on humans?
Marx argued that capitalism alienates humans from their work, nature, and each other.
What do social democrats believe about human nature?
Social democrats share the belief in a positive human nature, though they accept that some competition and self-interest exist.
Who is the key thinker associated with social democracy?
Anthony Crosland
What did Anthony Crosland believe about equality of opportunity?
Crosland believed that equality of opportunity allows talents to flourish.
What is the extent of agreement between revolutionary socialism and social democracy?
Both see humans as capable of solidarity and rational action, especially when liberated from poverty and inequality.
What is the mini-conclusion regarding revolutionary socialism and social democracy?
Despite different methods, both strands share a foundational belief in human goodness and sociability.
What do modern socialists argue about human nature?
Modern socialists argue that human nature is not fixed, and that people’s behaviour is shaped by social conditions, such as education and opportunity.
What is the view of the Third Way regarding human nature?
The Third Way views people as rational but socially conditioned, capable of responsibility if given opportunity.
Who is the key thinker associated with the Third Way?
Anthony Giddens
What did Anthony Giddens argue about the relationship between state and citizen?
Giddens argued for a contractual relationship where support is given in exchange for contribution.
What do both Third Way and social democracy believe about human nature?
Both strands see humans as improvable, not perfect—social systems help bring out latent morality and rationality.
What is the mini-conclusion regarding modern socialists’ view on human nature?
There is a strong modern socialist consensus: humans are positive by potential, shaped by their surroundings.
What is the disagreement between Webb and Marx regarding human nature?
Webb’s scepticism contrasts with Marx’s optimism about cooperative human nature.
What did Beatrice Webb believe about individuals?
Webb believed most individuals are self-interested and uninformed, needing guidance by a skilled governing elite.
What is the key thinker associated with democratic socialism?
Beatrice Webb
What did Marx believe about the working class?
Marx had more faith in the working class, believing class consciousness would naturally develop.
What is the extent of disagreement between Webb and Marx?
Webb sees people as needing direction, while Marx sees them as capable of self-liberation.
What does the disagreement between Webb and Marx reflect?
It reflects a minor but important disagreement over the level of rationality and agency in human nature.
