Collectivism vs Individualism

Question 1

Collectivism

Answer 1

K - Collectivist governments are based on the idea that people should be supported, from the “cradle to the grave” and that the rich should give to help the poor. The SNP have taken a collectivist approach to governing Scotland. They have made numerous polices to better the health of the Scottish people such as getting rid of prescription charges.
K - The SNP also have a collectivist approach to education. For example, the graduate tax was abolished.
K - The SNP have also taken a collectivist approach to childcare, every family is provided with a “Baby Box” when their baby is born and the “Bookbug” service donates children’s books families across Scotland.

Question 2

Individualism

Answer 2

K - Individualists argue that it is up to the individual to make choices and government should have little impact in the lives of citizens. David Cameron’s Conservative government of 2010-2016 was a very individualist government. From 2013 the government began significantly reducing public spending and benefits.
K - However, it is debated whether or not these cuts are justified. From 2010 to 2014 government funding for education dropped by about 10 percent.

Question 3

COVID 19

Answer 3

K - The coronavirus pandemic, however, has arguably caused the end of individualism in the UK. Boris Johnson is now running a collectivist Conservative government due to the pandemic and this could have a significant effect on British politics. The Furlough scheme was extended to the end of April 2021.
K - In addition, the government have put and additional £291 million towards education in 2020.