Conservativism Flashcards
Three ways Conservative thinkers view human nature
Hobbes Leviathan 1651 - cynical and gloomy view of human nature. Humans are restless in their pursuit of power. Influenced views on state, need a strong leader or life would be “nasty, brutish and short”
Oakeshott On Being Conservative - pessimistic. Humans are “fallible but not terrible” and “imperfect but not immoral” More optimistic than Hobbes. Humans are intellectually imperfect, influenced him to reject utopian ideas and embrace tradition. Humans need stability
Nozick - More optimistic view, humans should be left alone to realize their talents and abilities. Humans are “freedom-loving pack animals” who are egotistical but a formal authority is needed to enforce laws
Three ways Conservative thinkers view the state
Burke Reflections on the Revolution in France 1790 - State arises organically and should be driven by the ruling elite (benefit from generational knowledge) believed. Limited government, “Little platoons”
Oakeshott - “Men sail a boundless and bottomless sea” Believed in a small state, gov attempts to protect mankind may infringe on freedom. Rejects utopian ideas, state should adapt to fit needs
Three ways Conservative thinkers view authority
Hobbes - Leviathan authority as a source of order that prevents chaos and ensures well-functioning society. Life without a strong, governing authority would be “nasty, brutish and short.” Influenced by pessimistic view of human nature
Burke - Reflections on the French Revolution, Authority is rooted in tradition. It should be based on historical continuity and inherited wisdom. Influenced views on the state should be led by the ruling class. Long-standing institutions like the monarchy provide stability
Rand - Virtue of Selfishness rejected political authority beyond its basic role of protecting individual rights. Centralised power is a threat to personal freedom and she believed the government should not control the economy or regulate personal personal choices. Influenced by views on state intervention, “welfare state will become totalitarian in no time”
