Essay- 6 Political Ideologies

Question 1

Political ideologies: liberalism?

Answer 1

• gov role very limited, protect people’s rights to safety and ownership of property
• changes can be made quickly, traditions should be respected but blind adherence to old ways hinders positive change
• John Locke said people are good, able to control destructive urges and work together
• reject laissez-faire

Question 2

Political ideologies: communism?

Answer 2

• Marx highest value on work, gives people dignity, allows them to contribute to society and earn right to share wealth
• second stage: Lenin, believe revolution could take place in undeveloped rural countries if led by pro
• third stage: Stalin, more authoritarian than communist, secrecy and terror
• fourth stage: after WW2 communist leaders adapted to address situations in their countries
• fifth stage: Gorbachev, world revolution no longer a goal

Question 3

Political ideologies: conservatism?

Answer 3

• change must be gradual and controlled, respect traditions
• upper class are protectors of society, they own property, control wealth and educate
• gov should do nothing to hinder upper class
• Laissez-faire capitalism: businesses make money, people want products, workers have jobs, all society benefits