Conservatism

Question 1

To what extent do conservatives agree on human nature?

Answer 1

Conservatives generally agree that humans are imperfect, but their views on human nature differ:
-Traditional Conservatives (e.g., Hobbes, Burke): View humans as selfish and imperfect, requiring strong social structures and traditions to maintain order and stability.
-Modern Conservatives (e.g., Oakeshott, Nozick): See humans as rational and capable of self-interest, with some advocating for minimal state intervention and others emphasizing the importance of tradition.

Question 2

To what extent do conservatives agree on the role of the state?

Answer 2

Conservatives agree that the state is necessary to maintain order but differ in its role:
-Traditional Conservatives (e.g. Hobbes, Burke): Support a strong, stabilizing state to preserve social order and institutions.
-Modern Conservatives (e.g. Oakeshott, Thatcher): Advocate for a limited state, particularly in economic matters, favoring individual responsibility and free markets.

Question 3

To what extent do conservatives agree on society?

Answer 3

Conservatives agree on the importance of society for stability but differ in its structure:
-Traditional Conservatives (e.g. Burke, Hobbes): Emphasize the preservation of institutions, traditions, and social hierarchies to maintain order.
-Modern Conservatives (e.g. Oakeshott, Thatcher): Focus on individual responsibility, free markets, and gradual change.

Question 4

To what extent do conservatives agree on the economy?

Answer 4

Conservatives agree on the importance of a market economy but differ on state intervention:
-Traditional Conservatives (e.g. Burke, Hobbes): Support a mixed economy with some regulation and a focus on stability.
-Modern Conservatives (e.g. Thatcher, Hayek): Advocate for free-market capitalism with minimal state intervention.