Conservatism Key Concepts

Question 1

Atomism definition?

Answer 1

• An atomistic society is a society made up of independent individuals who act and interact with each other to create social values, institutions and processes

Question 2

Organic society definition?

Answer 2

• An organic society is an ideal of a society that functions like a living organism, if supported via a welfare state and strong government then it will largely function without an over-bearing state
• Key Thinker Robert Nozick saw an organic society as the most self sufficient society

Question 3

Noblesse Oblige definition?

Answer 3

• directly translates to “nobility obligates”
• Largely means that with great wealth comes the responsibility to give back to those who are less fortunate than oneself
• Thomas Hobbes believed heavily in this idea where the sovereign have a duty of care/protection over those worse off

Question 4

Change to conserve definition?

Answer 4

• A core idea that argues society should adapt to changing circumstances rather than reject change outright and risk possible revolution or rebellion

Question 5

Laissez-fare definition?

Answer 5

• Laissez-fare economics is an economic idea believed in largely by new-right conservative thinkers such as Nozick and Rand
• In Laissez-fare the economy is “let be” and occurs without any large government interference
• Popular amongst the new-right as it encourages individualism alongside being a key policy of free-market economics