Conservatism: Key Thinkers Flashcards
what is Thomas Hobbes most notable work?
Leviathan (1651)
What is Hobbes’ view on human nature?
Humans are needy and vulnerable, competing violently for necessities, safety, and reputation. Their ability to reason is fragile and their view of the world is distorted.
How does Hobbes view the state?
based on a social contract where people sacrifice their freedom for security, guaranteed by a ‘sovereign’
What is Edmund Burkes notable work?
Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790).
What is Hobbes’ perspective on society and the economy?
In a ‘state of nature’, humans are free from authority, but rational people would choose security over freedom. Order and stability are needed to promote economic activity and growth.
What is Burke’s view on human nature?
Tradition guides humans towards rationality despite their flawed nature.
How does Burke perceive the state?
The state is like a living organism, requiring cautious and limited reform to maintain order and harmony.
What is Burke’s stance on society and the economy?
Tradition and empiricism provide stability and a sense of rootedness.
Supports FM capitalism and poverty alleviation through private charity.
What is Michael Oakeshotts notable work?
On Being Conservative (1962).
What does Oakeshott say about human nature?
Humans are imperfect
capable of making moral decisions
How does Oakeshott view the state?
State should ‘negotiate every storm’ in times of hardship
What is Oakeshott’s perspective on society and the economy?
Rational leaders pose a danger by assuming they know everything
Private property provides security and power
What is Ayn Rands notable philosophy?
objectivism and the idea of atomism.
What is Rand’s view on human nature?
Rational self-interest is a virtue and the pursuit of self-interest is morally right
How does Rand perceive the state?
Small state
focus on national security
Maintain law and order
What is Rand’s stance on society and the economy?
Society is made up of independent individuals pursuing their own goals. She supports an unregulated laissez-faire economy.
What is Robert Nozicks notable work?
Anarchy, State, and Utopia (1974)
What does Nozick say about human nature?
Self-ownership and rationality mean individual should be left to pursue their own goals
How does Nozick view the state?
Minimal state intervention
-> individuals own their bodies
Taxation/welfare and state regulation undermine this
What is Nozick’s perspective on society and the economy?
People should be left to achieve their own goals independently
Taxes for state welfare are immoral
Only a minimalist state can be justified
