Politics A-Level: Ideologies (DONEEEEE)
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Politics A-Level: Ideologies (DONEEEEE) - Leaderboard
Politics A-Level: Ideologies (DONEEEEE) - Details
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| What is Conservatism? | -An Ideology that has been Evolving and quite Successful as a Result -Opposes Change and Favours Protecting Traditions, but can accept Necessary Slow Changes -Most, but not all, believe Humans are Imperfect and Vulnerable, and a Strong Government must be installed to Guide and Protect -Simply Put, it is a Political and Social Philosophy that wants Preserving and not Changing |
| What is a Pragmatist? Link to Conservatism | -A Pragmatist wanting to Solve a Problem looks to Practicalities -what is the most Sensible and Workable way - instead of Fixed Ideas or Theories -Conservatives Describe themselves as Non-Ideological - they don't believe in Absolutes (Fixed, Unchanging Principles) but rather adopt a 'What Works' Approach based on Circumstances and Experience (Using the Past to Dictate the Future) |
| Why does Pragmatism make Conservatism quite a Special Ideology? | -Pragmatism makes Conservatism hard to Pin Down in Simple Words, and may even suggest that Conservatism isn't an Ideology. -This could reflect what Conservatives think of their thinking as just 'Common Sense' -Critics may Accuse Conservatives as just Advocating Policies to get Public Support and not be Guided by Values or Principles -Suggests also COnservatism is Flexible and can Vary its Values |
| What does Ideological mean? | -Relating to a Set of Political Ideas/Body of a Doctrine. Most Conservatives would call themselves Pragmatic and not Ideological |
| What does Pragmatism suggest about Politics? | -Politics should be based on Circumstances and Events rather than Ideological Objectives. -Conservatives reject Abstract and Rigid Theories (eg those associated with Marxism) and see them as Dangerous as they are not Rooted in History and Tradition and may cause Instability and Chaos |
| What does Empiricism mean? | -A Rejection of Ideology - a Theory that suggests Knowledge comes from Tradition and Experience rather than from Ideas |
| Why would Empiricism lead to Conservatives having a Negative View of Human Nature? | -Empiricism warrants the Rejection of Ideology and therefore reject All Utopian Ideas due to them being a Rejection of Tradition, Knowledge and Learned Wisdom from the Past -This helps why they see Humans as quite Negative Pests |
| Is Conservatism purely based on Pragmatism Thinking? | -No, of course not. While there are Claims from Conservatives that state it is a Tradition, not an Ideology, there are several Core Beliefs they believe in |
| What does Tradition actually Refer too? | -This places Importance of Learning from Past Generations and always having a Connection to what has gone Before. -Tradition keeps Humans - weak and insecure - safe and gives an Understanding as to where we all Fit in -Tradition helps Connect Humans to their Ancestors and to those who will Follow us in the Future. This helps creates Personal Identities and to create Connections via Shared Histories and Culture -This leads to Social Cohesion |
| Where can Tradition be Found in the UK and USA? | -Institutions such as the Monarchy, Church of England, The House of Lords and the Armed Forces for the UK -In the USA, the American Flag, USCON and Celebrations such as the 4th of July |
| Why can some Traditional Institutions or Celebrations not be Replaced? | -Taking the Monarchy as an example, it has survived literally Hundreds of Years and is Full of Wisdom and should be kept for the Future to Appreciate and Connect to -Abolishing it and even Replacing can lead to Dangerous Instability |
| Why can Tradition create the Suspicion of Change for Conservatives | -Most are Sceptical of Change because it goes Against Tradition and makes Insecurity in the Weak and Vulnerable Humans -This can develop into a Fear of Multiculturalism and Immigration. -Neo-Liberals may argue for Change and are Rationalists (Which we will see later) |
| How can Religion explain the Suspicion of Change for Conservatives? | -Much of the Conservative View of Tradition comes from the Religious Beliefs of Many (not all) Conservatives and may be Linked to Many Religions, not just Christianity -Examples: Provides Stability and Order, Authority and Hierarchy, Cultural Identity |
| Are Conservatives Against All Change? -Use UK Devolution as an example. | -No but they want Change to be Slow and Evolutionary rather than Radical. Should only take place if it's Necessary -While the Conservative Party opposed Devolution, it's now seen as a Way to Keep the Union. Change here is a Specific Circumstances - Devolution had Taken Place and shouldn't be Abolished - rather than something the Party initially wanted can be Described as Change to Conserve. In Other Words, They realised Devolution was Good for the UK, and Convseratives wanted to Maintain that. -Change should be based on Analysis of Past Events, rather than for Abstract events or Utopian Views |
| What does Radical mean? | -Far-Reaching and Thorough. A Major Departure from what has Gone Before. Conservatives are not like this |
| What does Change to Conserve mean? | -Belief that Change can be Necessary, but must be Slow, Evolutionary, and based on Experience so it can Protect Tradition and Prevent Social Instability |
| How can Tradition help Reinforce the Belief for Private Property? | -Conservatives believes in Ownership giving Insecure Individuals Security and Independence from the Government, whilst also Encouraging Respect for the Law and for the Property of Others -Property Owners are thus more Likely to Uphold the Status Quo, as they fear Change can Threaten their Property Rights -They respect those in Authority, who will Help Protect their Assets, and will Support Traditional Family Values that allows them to Pass on a Legacy to Future Generation -Finally, they argue Private Property allows Individuals to Express their Personality and Character (Furnishing) -This Belief in Private Property is at the Heart of all Conservative Thinking, and one where their is Agreement from all Sides |
| What does Authority mean? | -Refers to the Legitimate Right to Tule and Exercise Power over Others. -The Right can come from Tradition (Monarch) or via Elections such as a Prime Minister |
| What do Conservatives mean by Property anyways? | -Concept of Property Encompasses Various Tangible and Intangible Assets an Individual can Control like: -Real Property: Land, Buildings and other Physical Strucutres -Personal Property: Possessions like Cars, Furniture, Clothing and more -Intellectual Property: Patents, Trademarks and Copyrights -Financial Assets: Stocks, Bonds, Retirement Accounts and more |
| Where did Liberalism come from? | -Developed in the 18th Century as a Result of the American and French Revolution that overthrew Autocratic Monarchies and Development of Capitalism -Also linked to the 19th Century Development of the Nation State |
| What does Individualism Suggest to Liberals? | -This is the Core of Liberal Theory. Any Individual in Liberals' Eyes should be the Centre of Political Thought and must take priority over any Group -This Belief means it goes against Collectivist Theories like Socialism, and also there should be a Concern of the States Power. |
| What is Foundation Equality? | -Liberals say Every Person is born of Equal Value, and this, Regardless of Ability, receives Equal Rights -This was Influenced by the Enlightenment Idea of Foundation Equality, challenging the Conservative Idea of Natural Hierarchy |
| What do Liberals believe about Human Nature? | -Rational Individuals, who make their own Moral Judgements, and Controls their own Destiny -Rationality means Humans Understand that Reason, not Force, should Resolve Conflicts which leads to Peace and Progress in Society -This is much less Negative and Pessimistic than Conservatism, as Humans can actually Reason! |
| What is Egoistical Individualism, and why do Classical Liberalism support this? | -This refers to that Humans are Egoistical and Self Seeking, putting themselves First before Others -This means the Individual is Sufficient and Sovereign, who owns Nothing to anyone Else |
| What is Development Individualism, and why do Modern Liberals support this? | -Refers to how True Freedom is the Ability to Achieve Goals and Potential, and that this Connects Humans. If some people are Not Free, no one is -This may involve some State Intervention in order for this to Happen. Individuals can have Common Goals with others in order to Achieve Self-Realisation |
| How did Socialism Develop? -What did it aim for? | -During the 19th and 20th Century, it came as a Response to Clear Inequalities and Social Divisions caused by Capitalism and the Industrial Revolution -It aimed for a more Fairer and Equal Alternative via Revolution or Evolution. Human Nature is Naturally Social and Collective |
| What is Collectivism, and why is it Superior to Individualism? | -Collectivism refers to the Individual considered to be Subordinate to a Larger Group, like a State, Nation or Social Class -This implies Cooperation with each other, rather than Competitive Individual Self-Striving. -Socialists argue Collectivism is Morally and Economically Superior to Individualism. This argument also applies to Capitalism, as a Means of Economic Individualism |
| Why is Collectivism Superior Moral in Socialist Views? -Why would it link to Socalist's view on Human Nature? | -It creates Cooperation and Prevents the Aggressive Conflict Individual's Self Striving Behaviour has caused. -There are Positive and Unifying Effects on Society, which provide Moral and Economic Benefits -This links with their Positive Human Nature as they assume Humans are Naturally Social Altruistic Beings, so Collectivism is just a Natural Development |
| Why is Collectivism Economically Superior according to a Socialists View? | -It Prevents Unnecessary and Wasteful Competition, and creates, in theory, Greater Productivity -People work together more efficiently, rather than against each other |
| What does Cooperation mean, from a Socialists perspective? | -Refers to the idea Humans are Malleable and Moulded by Circumstances but tend towards Altruism. -We are Social Beings, and we Naturally work with Others |
| How has Collectivism been Interpreted in Socialism? | -During the 19th and 20th Centuries, Collectivism has been associated with the State being the Collective Body, which was an Alternative to Private Ownership associated with Capitalism -For Fundamentalist Socialists/Communists during the 20th Century, Collectivism was seen as State Planning and Abolishing Private Property. This meant the Nationalisation of All Means of Production and thus Total State Control of the Organisation of the Economy -Social Democrats would see Collectivism as an Exemplified Welfare State. All Contributions via Progressive Taxation and all Benefits. Ta-dah |
| Why are Trade Unions a Form of Collectivism? | -Trade Unions are based on the Collectivist Idea of Workers coming Together to form Democratic Organisations that aim to Achieve a Better Outcome for all |
| Why can the Cooperative Movement be seen as Example of Collectivism? | -Cooperatives are Worked Owned or Consumer Owned -The Co-Op in Britain is a Great Example. John Lewis too. |
| What is Anarchism Defined as? | -The State is Evil and Unnecessary, and Humans can Realise their full Potential and Freedom without it -It isn't based on Chaos and Violence, but rather that Humans are Rational and Capable of Living Cooperatively. -However, the Divisions over Human Nature, Use of Violence, and what Replaces the State makes Anarchism quite Hard to Define |
| Why do Anarchists despise the State? | -The State is always Corrupt and Coercive and will Restrict human liberty to Decide and Control their own destiny -Anarchists see Human Nature as Mouldable, and like Liberals, see Power as Corrupting -But Liberal Ideas of Limiting State with C+B is Impossible, Designed to give False Impression that it is possible to Restrict the State as All Laws restrict Individual Freedom and the Threat of Violence and Punishment is there if we Disobey them |
| Why would Anarchists consider a Revolution? | -Anarchists see the State, like Marxists, as a Tool of the Wealthy and Privileged so it creates Inequality -To get rid of the State, a Revolution is needed, and it won't go down Without a Fight -But they reject the Marxist Organised and Disciplined Revolutions and instead enjoy Direct Action (Breaking the Law to make a Political Point) and Civil Disobedience. -Direct Democracy will replace the Representative Democracy |
| How do Conservatives see Human Nature as? | -Selfish and Flaws. Emotional rather than Rational (hmm) -This Pessimism impacts their View on the State and Society -Conservatives see Human Nature as Psychologically Weak - we are Fragile and Vulnerable and seek Security which can be found in an Hierarchy - a Social System which we all know Our Places, our Roles, and can Defer to the Natural Leaders who are Above us -This is in Complete Contrast to Optimistic Liberal Beliefs, and it allows Conservatives to Prioritise Order above Freedom and Libety |
| Why do Conservatives see Criminals as Common? | -Because of our Vulnerability, Individuals may become Criminals -Humans have no Sense of Morality, and we are Selfish and Greedy and may even turn to Violence. |
| How do Conservatives deal with such a Pessimistic View on Human Nature? | -Institutions such as the Education System, Nuclear Family, and the Police imposes Values of Right and Wrong on Us -This does Imply roles and Powers of the State too -No Strong State makes Society more Unstable and Chaotic. -Conservatives are more Likely to Blame the Criminal for their Actions, than rather see Society as in Any Way Responsible for Crime. -This thus creates a Focus on Strict Law and Order Policy, such as the Death Penalty |
| What does Hierarchy Mean? | -Refers to a Society Ordered on an Unequal Basis. Those at the Top holds authority and those on the Bottom Obeys those Above. -This Structure takes no Consideration on Ability or Talent |
| What Intellectual Impacts does the Conservative View of Human Natures entail? | -Humans can not Understand or Make Sense of the Complex and Scary World around us. Religious Institutions can explain this to us and will be part of the Hierarchy of a Conservative State and Society -This is also why Conservatives reject Abstract Ideas - We find them Unsettling as they Suggest Change and Rejecting already Learned Experience |
| What does Human Imperfection mean? | -Refers to the Belief that Humans are Psychologically, Morally, and Intellectually Weak. -Incapable of Understanding the World around them |
| What does Organic Society mean? How does this Link to Conservative's Core Values? | -Implies that Society as a Human Body, which is Linked to One Nation Conservatism -Every Part of the Body has a Specific Function; without it, the Body falls Apart. Even one part being Changed damages the Body. But when everyone is Playing their Party Healthy, the Body will Flourish -This suggests there should be No Attempts to Transform Society, or Disaster will Ensue. Also linked to Hierarchy as Within Society, there will be Various Classes and Groups but they can live in Peace as Part of a Larger Whole |
| How can Organic Society help Humans? What do Conservatives say? | -Fragile Weak Humans are provided a Sense of Security, as it provides clear Roles and Purpose of each one of us. -Connects us to Social Groups, Institutions, Workplace and Religious Community and even the Nation -This view of Society is linked to how those with Money and Power have a Duty to Tender those Less Affluent. This is called Noblesse Oblige, which also Rejects Atomism |
| What is Atomism? | -Refers to how Humans are Self-Seeking and Unconnected to Others. Some Conservatives see Humans as just Selfish, and Society as a Collection of Isolated Individuals -This is Connected to Laissez-Faire Economics |
| What does Noblesse Oblige mean? | -Those Wealthy have to Take Care of thus Less Well off. |
| What Disagreement comes from Organic Society? | -Traditional Conservatism stand behind this, who Rejects Individualism as Individuals are Evil Beings -But New Right Supporters see Individual Rights and Freedoms more Important, and some Prominent Figures like Thatcher declared 'There is no Such Thing as Society, only Individuals' -One Nation Conservatism may stand with Traditional, as David Cameron Rejected the Statement said by Thatcher |
| What is Paternalism? | -The term 'Pater' mean Father, so the Role of a Paternalistic State is to act as an Authoritative Father Figure to the Weak and Flawed Citizens, providing Care and Maintaining Order via Regulating their Behaviours |
| What would a Paternalistic State allow? | -Hierarchical and Unequal, and aims to protect the Status Quo by Preventing Riots from the Working Class, which may Involve some Welfare Provision to Hush them. This is key for One Nation Conservatives |
| What is Hard Paternalism? | -Refers to the Government not Concerned with Consent. The State can Step in to not allow Actions or Activities that are Dangerous or Undesirable - such as Banning Smoking -Essentially just Favours Forcing People to do things |
| What is Soft Paternalism? | -Refers to the Government should act in a Fatherly Authoritative Way, looks for the Needs and Regulates Citizen's Behaviour, but should require Broad Consent -Essentially using Persuasion and Education |
| What does Paternalism say about Inequality and Democracy? | -Inequality is both Natural and Desirable. Edmund Burke argued Leaders come from the 'Natural Aristocracy' and Victorian PM Benjamin Disraeli said the Rich had a Duty to the Poor (Two Nations) -Linked to Belief in Organic Society, Paternalism suggests there are Natural Leaders who form the Elite, and who act Responsibly as they see fit, rather than in a Representative Way -This puts most Conservatives in Opposition to Democracy, but as Pragmatists, they have Accepted Democracy today where the Masses can choose between a Selection of Members of the Elite to make the Decisions |
| What is Libertarianism focusing about? | -The Need to Provide Citizens with as much Freedom as Possible, thus Limiting the Role of the Government and the State -This links with Belief in the Free Market, and is in Contrast with Paternalism. Libertarians strongly Believe in Individualism - the Person is Responsible for their Actions and that Individuals have Rights to Life, Liberty and Property -Law should Exist entirely to ensure Individuals respect Rights of Others. The State and Government are a Danger to Individual Freedom -A Free Market, with Free Individuals, Unconstrained by Government, will Prosper |
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| How did Traditional Conservatism come to be? | -Traditional Conservatism is Authoritarian. Developing due to Fears of Radical Change and Belief in Human Equality from Supporters of the French Revolution and Enlightenment, this Form of Conservatism can even be linked to the Rise of Fascism in Europe, though it's not the only Influence -Opposing any new Reformist Ideas of the 18th Century, like Democracy and Individual Rights, it is a Reactionary, Backwards Ideology. It mainly focuses on Social Order and it Orgininally Represented Landowners Interests |
| What Core Values does Traditional Conservatism Stand for? | -Important of Tradition and Custom, highlighting the Bonds that hold together the Past, Present and Future Generations -Burke argued Abounding Tradition and the 'Accumulated Wisdom of the Ages' and wanting Abstract Ideas, you get Social Disorder and Chaos -Takes a very Romantic View of the Past, and Rejects new ideas, such as Industrialisation, Traditional do Believe Greatly in Organic Society. |
| What Beliefs do Traditional Conservatives take when it comes to having a Successful Human Society | -Huerachry is the essence and Core of all Successful Human Societies and is essential for our Survival. Being Obedient to those at the Top is Natural. Joseph de Maistre (1753-1821) argued the Absolute Monarchy must be Restored in France because of this -Humans are seen as Sinful, Greedy, and Motivated by Negative Feelings and thus Unable to Grasp the world around them. Social Stability thus requires Strong Government to be made, and People to come together as an Organic Society, bound by institutions, Hierarchy and more |
| What happened with Traditional Conservativism during the 19th and 20th Century? | -During the 19th Century, Traditional Conservatives were Seen as Defending Established Institutions, like the Church, Monarchy and Astreicotoracy. Later, they were gripped by the Rise of Industrialization and the Influence of the Middle Class -During the 20th Century, Traditional Conservatives saw Challenges from Socialism, liberalism and Fascism. After WWII, Traditional Conservatives had to adapt to the Changing Landscapes. The New Right began to be more prominent as the Cold War Progressed, and Traditional Conservatives had to Evolve and Reconcile their Beliefs with the Growth of Individual Rights, Diversity in Society and the Welfare State |
| What does Reactionary mean? | -This means to look Backwards, wishing to Return to an Imagined Past. This is Critical for understanding Traditional Conservatism |
| Where did One Nation Conservatism come about? | -This form is often Linked to Benjamin Disraeli. A Pragmatist, who recognised the Growing Support of Socialism was sweeping through Europe in the 19th Century and thus he aimed to Attract the Vote of the Newly Enfranchised Working Classes to Prevent this -Disraeli in his Novels wrote of the Growing divisions between the Rich and Poor due to Industrialisation and capitalism. Cameron's Big Society Speech and changing the Image of the Conservative Party also can be Traced to One Nation Conservatism |
| What did One Nation try and Attempt with the Ideology | -It aimed to bring Individualism and Collectivism together, as well as Update Conservatism from the Rise of Capitalism. This shows the Pragmatism of Conservatism at full Force, reacting to the New Forces of Democracy and Capitalism, and Adapting the Ideology |
| What does One Nation say about Organic Society and Laissez-Faire Economics? | -Rejects Laissez Faire Economics to Capitalism and Individualism and rather goes for a more Collective Approach - Organic Society -Everyone is part of a Larger Whole, as each person has Duties and Responsibilities to everyone else. The Social inequality and Poverty from Excess Capitalism are Problems of all Citizens, not just the Poor -However, they are not opposed to Class Structure, as well that's Rooted in Hierarchy and Organic Society -Disraeli realised how Awful the Working Conditions were during the Rapid Industrialisation, and so, Social Reform was needed to Protect and Conserve Hierarchy and the State. Reform was carried out to ensure the Poor no longer Threatened Chaos |
| How does One Nation combat Socialism? | -Redistribution of Wealth to make Equality is not the Aim of One Nation Conservatives, but rather, they want Paternalism. Those at the Top have a duty for those below - noblesse oblige. This could be laws such as Limiting Working Hours or Expanding Primary education -Concerns for the Poor and Unemployment is Critical to Understanding One Nation Conservatism, and led to Divisions during Thatchers Cabinet, with Thatcher saying those who disagreed with her as 'wet' |
| What does One Nation say about Tradition? | -In order to Prevent Divisions of a Nation into Haves and Have nots, Disraeli argued for Institutions like the Monarchy and the Church could be used to Unite the Nation and allow Shared Experiences. Again this ties in with Organic Society |
| Why was One Nation Conservatism Strong during the 20th Century? | -The early 20th century saw Huge Working Class Movements, and One Nation Addressed issues such as Poverty, Living Conditions and Social Mobility to allow Social Order -After WW2 there was Consensus for a Mixed Economy, Welfare State, and some State Intervention to allow Social Justice -Pragmatism took hold, allowing a more Flexible Conservative Movement. They would allow change if it benefited both Social Cohesion and the National Interests. -Figures like Harold Macmillan supported Policies of Expanding Housing, Education and Social Services, whilst also allowing Free Enterprise and Economic Prudence -In all, One Nation conservatism gave a Moderate, Centrist Ideology to the UK, and protected it from the Extremes of Fascism or Communism |
| Why is the New Right Contradictory? | -The New Right contains both Radical, Forward Looking and Reactionary Ideas, and is Linked to 2 Contrasting Political Traditions -One the one hand, Neo-Liberals believes in Rolling the State back to Free Individuals from Constraints -On the other hand, Neo-Conservatives believes in keeping Social Order and the Hierarchy. At its Heart, Neo-Cons believe in Individual being free from State Interference, but also Human Behaviour must be Restricted by Family, nation and Morality |
| What does the New Right say about Neo-Liberal Economics? | -The New Right expresses a Need for a Return to the Past where the state interference in the Economy was much Less and where People followed Strict Moral Codes. -As Neo-Liberal Economics leads to Higher Unemployment and Inequality, Crime and Social Problems begin to Undermine Stability, so Tough Law and Order is Needed -Neo Right may downplay the Negative Effects of Excessive Capitalism and say overall, Economic Prosperity will be Achieved |
| When did the New Right become Popular in Britain and the USA? -Why is it Different to other forms of Conservatism? | -During the 1980s, after the Failings of the Keynesian Mixed Economy Post War which led to Inflation and Recessions. -As well as Paternalistic Conservative Parties failing in the Poles, the New Right brought in a Radical Change in Social and Moral Values. It is very different to other forms of Conservatism for Numerous Reasons, for example, it is Ideological rather being Pragmatic, as well as believing in Human Rationality and Abstract Theories (Free Market) |
| What do Neo Liberals think of One Nation Ideas? (Economy) | -When it comes to the Economy, the New Right (Robert Nozick) rejects One Nation's Ideas of Helping the Poor by Preventing Excess Capitalism -New Right thinkers made Governments the reason for the Economic Downturn during the 1970s and said there was a need to accept a Level of Unemployment and Successful Economic Policy only Prioritises Inflation via Control of Money Supply. One Nation would factor in Unemployment and Welfare -Government role would be ruled by, via Deregulation and Cutting Taxes, again rejecting One Nation ideas of perhaps Noblesse Oblige. Also New Right wants Gov to Protect property |
| Where do Neo-Liberals get their Economic thinking from? -What did this lead to in the UK? | -Adam Smith, 18th Century Scottish Economist, who argued the 'Invisible Hand of the Market' guides Economic Policy -Neo-Liberals want a return to the past of Entrepreneurialism and Self Help. Voluntary Organisations, not the State, Help the Poor -Mass Programme of Privatisation swept in Britain during the 80s. -Neo-liberals and classic liberals both see the government as controlling and treating people like children, prioritizing the group over the individual. - |
| What are Neo-Liberal's views on Human Nature? -How does this impact their views on the State? | -Contrasting View of Human Nature to Traditional and One Nation Conservatives -Believes in more Liberal Views of Autonomous Rational Individuals, who can Manage one Affairs -The State thus should be Minimal, allowing Free Individuals the Freedom to make Choices -Also seen is how the Welfare State creates a Dependency Culture, and the State should be cut to allow Individuals to again Manage their Affairs and do what they want. -Nozick said Welfare was a Violation of Property Rights (???) -'There is No Such Thing as Society, only Individuals' |
| Why do Neo-Liberals like Trickle Down Economics? -What do the other forms of Conservatism think about this? | -Neo-Liberals Argue their policies like Little Taxes, Deregulation and so forth will lead to a 'Trickle-Down' Effect -If the Rich can keep more of their money, they can make more money, Employ more People, and Pay them better -Wealth will thus 'Trickle Down' to all Levels of Society. -This of course is another Abstract Idea and one that other Forms look with Caution. Where is its roots? |
| Where did Neo-Conservatism come from? | -Also known as Conservative New Right, it came from the Radical Social Changes of the 60s and 70s, which would lead to Permissiveness. New Conservatives, and Neo-Liberals, are still active Today in Britain and America |
| What is Anti-Permissiveness and why do Neo-Conservatives believe in this? | -This is the Rejection of the View that Individuals can make their own Moral Choices, like how many Sexual Partners one can have, Getting Divorced or more -This can link to the Traditional Conservative view that Humans are Weak and Selfish, as we can not make Moral Choices -Permissiveness also Challenges Authority and Hierarchy, again the Central Thinking of Conservatism. Permissiveness has been Blamed for Rising Crime, STD Rates and Divorce Rates. |
| Why can Neo-Conservatives be Described as Social Authoritarians? | -The Fragile, Insecure Human needs Strong Discipline from Above -Inequality, seen as Nature and Desirble is a core Belief for all Conservatives, but Neo-Conservatives go Against Neo-Liberals as they advocate for a Stronger State for Law and Order (More Tax?) -Neo-Cons also support the Nuclear Family, even encouraging it via the Tax System, which uses the State to Encourage a Set of Moral Views |
| Why do Neo-Conservatives oppose Multiculturalism and Immigration? | -Weakens National Unity and Patriotism. This may lead to an Adoption of a Strong, Aggressive, Xenophobic Foreign Policy |
| What are the Main Agreements and Disagreements on: Human Nature | -All Conservatives believes Human Nature is Imperfect, Intellectually Limited and Insecure. Thus Authority is more Important that Individual Freedom, as well as Pragmatism is Needed rather than Abstract Ideas, which are Hard to Grasp -Neo-Liberals though take a more Positive Spin as Humans are Rational and can manage their own Affairs |
| What are the Main Agreements and Disagreements on: Society? | -Most Conservatives agree Society is Organic and Naturally Hierarchical. Everyone has a role to Play and we need traditional structures to allow a Sense of Belonging and Safety -Inequality is Desirable and Nature and Rapid Changes shouldn't be Considered -New Right Conservatives believe in a more individualistic Atomistic View and see Humans as Self-Reliant. Change in Society is Desribable furthermore |
| What are the Main Agreements and Disagreements on: State? | -Conservatives mainly Favour a Strong Hierachal State and see this as just a Natural -Leaders are just Born in Society, and we need Moral Guidance from them with Clear Rules and Punishment to break them -New Right conservatives take a more Classic Liberal Viewpoint, and what Limited government and Indivusdla Freedom ins Come, but not all Areas of Life (Law and Order) |
| What are the Main Agreements and Disagreements on: Economy? | -All Conservatives respect the Need for Private Property, as it creates Identity, Pride, Respect, Hierarchy and Security -But Traditional and One Nation may facilitate government intervention to Keep the Status Quo by Shushing the Poor, but the New Right wants a Self-Help, Lassez-Faire Approach Free Market Economy |
| What did Edmund Burke (1729-97) say in his Book (1790) about 'Change to Progress' | -Burke, in 'Reflections on the Revolution in France' Rejected Liberal Ideas - Especially on the Idea of Progress as Desirable -He Argued Inheritance and Tradition were Essential for a Stable Society, and that institutions and Beliefs that Form society are Foemed by the Wisdom of those who came before us and Must be Respected -Burke used France - during its Messy Bloody 1789 Revolution - as an example when this Past Knowledge is Destroyed. |
| What did Burke say about Continuity? | -'Change is Only Necessary to Conserve' -He Saw Society as a Partnership/Bond between the Dead, Living and the Unborn Future Generations, rather than a Social Contract between the Government and Governed (Liberal Idea) -These Connections foster Stability and Security in Society and allow Social Order, not the Social Chaos that was Ensuing in Paris |
| What did Burke say about the Ideas and Theories that came from the Enlightenment and French Revolution? | -Because they were Abstract, Burke promptly Rejected them, as well as Rejecting Democracy and saw Inequality as Natural -The People should be Represented by the Elite and the Wise (Same Thing) how would not be Delegates, but rather follow their own Conscience in making Decisions and Policies -Burke obviously was not a supporter of the Social Contract Theory and instead Supported that Society provides Individuals with Links to the Past and Future, but he did Defend the Glorious Revolution as he Rejected Absolute Monarchy. |
| What was the Enlightenment? | -An Intellectual and Cultural Movement that Sprung in Europe during the Late 17th Century and 18th Century -Expressed the Importance of Reason, Empiricism, and Individualism as Means to Understand and Improve the Human condition -John Locke, Immanuel Kant, Adam Smith, Mary Wollstonecraft.. All Promimnet Figures here |
| What was the Glorious Revolution? | -In 1688, King James II of England was Overthrown and William III and Mary II came to the English Throne -The Revolution confirmed of Parliamentary Supremacy, as well a Constitutional Monarchy, Bill of Rights and Rise of the Whigs and Tories |
| What did Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) say in his book? | -Thomas Hobbes supported Absolute and Unlimited Government - which meant the Monarchy in Context -In Leviathan (1651) he argued Strong Government is Needed to Protect Humans from the Choas and Violence of an Alternative: A State of Nature where life would be 'nasty, brutish, and short' -Hobbes believed, that individuals left to themselves would Fear each other and be Irrational. This is such a Negative View |
| How did Hobbes solve his Pessimistic Approach to Human Nature | -Strong, Absolute Government without Limits was Needed to Protect Humans, and without it, Normal Life would be Impossible -The Government's role was to Enforce Law and Order, which Humans would be Happy Accepting this |
| What did Hobbes say about the Social Contract Theory? | -Hobbes was one of the Thinkers who Developed the Social Contract Theory. Citizens must Accept and Obey Government, even a Repressive one, because the Alternative would be Worse -Hobbes believed it was Worth Giving up one's Freedom and Liberty for Protecting only the State can Facilitate -The Contract between the Citizens and the State Consisted of the Citizen's Unlimited Obedience in Return for Personal Security |
| Why has Hobbes Negative View on Human Nature not been Successful in all Branches of Conservatism? | -This Negative View has not been Consumed really by Libertarian New Right Conservatives. Not only they want Change, they support the Liberal View of Human Rationality and have a Firm Belief in some Ideas that can be seen as Abstract, such as Laissez-Faire Economics |
| What did Ayn Rand (1905-82) say about Selfishness? | -Rand's Bestsellers were 'The Fountainhead' (1943) and 'Atlas Shrugged' (1957) -Rand focused on the importance of Individual Liberty, which Trump greatly loved. She writes how Selfishness is not a Character's Fault, but rather a Virtue and the Key to Personal happiness |
| What did Ayn Rand say about Altruism? | -Altruism is seen as Sacrificing Yourself for the Interests and Lives of Others, and thus is Irrational. Self-seeking individuals will Support the Free Market as they want to Earn and Trade -In The Fountainhead, the Architect: Howard Roark argues Altruism makes Depedence and the Common Good leads to Dictatorships |
| What did Rand say about Religion and Government? | -Rand was an Atheist, and called for a Complete Separation, Similar to hat of State and Church in France -She believed in a Very Limited Government, who would focus on Protecting the Individual by using Threats of Force. Rand thus isn't an Anarchist as she saw a Role for the State in terms of Police, Army and Legal Systems. The Government though had no Right and Status, expect the Right Delegated to it by the Citizens |
| What was Objectivism? | -Rand developed this idea, which is the Highly Individualistic Belief that 'Man Exists for his Own Sake' -This idea has excited many Entrepreneurs have found Exciting and why Trump is such a Fan |
| What did Michael Oakeshott (1901-1990) say about Ideology and Rationalism? | -Oakeshott, like Burke, rejected Ideology and that there are Correct Answers to Practical Questions -Disliked the Idea that Politics can be Organised on a Rational Basis based on Abstract Principles like Equality because Human Understanding is Limited -He even attacked Rationalism because it placed Theory above Knowledge, Culture and Tradition |
| How did Oakeshott wanted Politics to be about? | -Politics should be about Practical Knowledge and Pragmatism, but not Ideas and Theories that ignore complexities of Human Society and Tradition -Reform, in his eyes, was breaking with the Past, when it was better to create Continuity. Making something New is Usually a Failure and a Mistake |
| Why did Oakeshott dislike the Enlightenment? | -The Enlightenment lead to Rationality being more Popular for making Political Decisions. Politics should be a Conversation, not an Argument. This rejects the Idea of Absolutes (Rigid Ideologies) |
| What did Oakeshott say in 'On Being Conservative' (1962, in Rationalism in Politics and Other Essays) | -Oakeshott had Compared Society with too much Personal Freedom to a Ship lost at Sea - Restless with no Direction or Order -Politicians can be seen as Officers on the Deck, guided by Experts, but Heading for Disaster |
| What did Robert Nozick (1938-2002) say about Individuals? | -Nozick was a Free-Market Libertarian, who in 'Anarchy, State and Utopia' (1974) said Humans own Themselves -By Self-Ownership (Nozick said Humans as Self-Owners) Individuals have the Moral Rights to Keep what they Make and not be Forced to give those Resources to Others -They also can act in any way they want, which may include Harming Themselves |
| Why did Nozick oppose Egalitarianism? (Equality amongst Individuals) | -Individuals should do what they wish with their own Resources -Whatever the Outcome, Regardless of Inequality, it is a Just One -Belief in Equality of Outcome, in Nozick's view, leads to an Unjust State Interference in Lives of People, and it always Collectivist rather than Individualistic. This makes the Individual not important |