Conservatism: Principles Flashcards
What is the principle of Tradition in conservatism?
Involves the institutions, beliefs, customs
passed down through generations
Originally rooted in Christianity
What benefits does Tradition provide according to conservatism?
Leads to social cohesion and security
Reassures people by continuing practices that have worked for generations
Which key thinker is associated with Tradition in conservatism?
Edmund Burke
What is the essence of Pragmatism in conservatism?
Practicality
Making decisions based on cautious, limited changes rather than ideology
How does Pragmatism view tradition?
A guide for what has worked in prev generations
contributes to stability
Which key thinkers are associated with Pragmatism?
Thomas Hobbes
Edmund Burke
Michael Oakeshott
What does Human Imperfection in Conservatism entail?
Belief that humans are flawed and incapable of understanding the world
=> poor, poor self-serving decisions
Three aspects of Human Imperfection
Psychologically-> Need for security
Morally-> natural selfishness
Intellectually-> limited understanding
Which key thinkers are associated with Human Imperfection?
Thomas Hobbes
Michael Oakeshott
What is an Organic Society in Conservatism?
A society that functions like a living organism
Different parts work together for cohesion
main features of an Organic Society?
Hierarchy
Traditional institutions
Paternalism
Top-down authority
Which key thinker is associated with Organic Society?
Edmund Burke
How does one-nation conservatism build on Paternalism?
Belief that the gov should be led by those best equipped to lead
The elite have the authority and responsibility to govern
How does one-nation conservatism build on Paternalism?
Instruct the wealthy to help the less fortunate in society
What is Libertarianism in Conservatism?
Rejects paternalism
Advocates for individual liberty
Maximum economic freedom
Minimal gov intervention
