Conservatism Mindmap Flashcards
What did Hobbes believe about human nature?
Highly cynical, individuals are selfish, driven by a ruthless desire for supremacy. But humans, are not wholly irrational and see the need for a state to protect them from a ‘hellish’ state of nature
What did Hobbes believe about the state?
State arises constructionally from individuals who seek security and comfort. The state must be autocratic.
What does Hobbes believe about society?
There is no such thing as society until the creation of a state which brings order and security. Until then, life is ‘nasty brutish and short’
What does Hobbes believe about the economy?
Constructive economic activity is impossible without a state guaranteeing order and security
What does Burke believe about human nature?
He is sceptical about the ‘crooked timber’ of humanity. This is marked by the gap between aspiration and achievement. Humans can conceive of perfection but cannot achieve it
What does Burke believe about the state?
It arises organically and should be aristocratic and be driven by a hereditary elite
What does Burke believe about society?
Society should be organic and multi-faceted comprising of a host of small communities (little platoons). Humans gain comfort from these closely knitted societies
What does Burke believe about the economy?
Trade should involve ‘organic’ free markets and laissez faire capitalism
What does Oakshott believe about human nature?
Modest. Humanity is at its best when humans are free from grand designs and are focussed on a daily routine
What does Oakshott believe about the state?
Should be guided by tradition and practical concerns. Pragmatic, not dogmatic.
What does Oakshott believe about society?
Localised communities are essential to humanities survival, especially when guided by short term requirements rather than abstract ideas
What does Oakshott believe about the economy?
Free markets are volatile and unpredictable and need a pragmatic intervention by the state
What does Rand believe about human nature?
Humans are objectivists, we are guided by rational self interest and the pursuit of self fufillment
What does Rand believe about the state?
Should confine itself to law, order and national security. Any attempt to promote positive liberty via the state should be resisted
What does Rand believe about society?
It does exist, but society is atomistic. It is the mere sum of individuals.
