Ideology - 12 Marker Flashcards
Tradition & Change - Point
One key aspect of the Conservatism ideology is tradition & change
Tradition & Change - Explain
Conservatives have argued in favour of tradition & against change as longstanding practices have been ‘tested by time’
Their preference for tradition is closely related to their desire for public order
Burke describes tradition as a ‘partnership between those who are living, those who are dead & those who are yet to be born’
Tradition & Change - Example
Traditions include the monarchy, the church as well as traditional values like the importance of a traditional family & religion
Tradition & Change - Analysis
Clear links between tradition & change the Conservative party
Holds significant importance as they firmly believe change must be slow
Tradition & Change - Rebuttal
Belief contradicts to when Charles I was abusing his power & had to go
Clearly links to Weber’s idea of traditional authority
Although only relevant to a handful of countries, it’s clear trad auth still remains like the Saudi Royal Family who have ruled since 1774
Human Nature - Point
Another key aspect of the Conservatism ideology is human nature
Human Nature - Explain
When Conservatives believe human beings are imperfect
Burke is suspicious of human nature in particular the likelihood that those without property will do their best in case there’s no security of tradition
Human Nature - Example
Seen in the modern world with countries that’ve suffered power vacuums such as Syria & Libya
Burke suggests the French Revolution will fail as the men appointed are primarily lawyers who will be greedy
Human Nature - Analysis
Human nature is significantly important when it comes to Conservatism ideology
Seen with some modern day Conservatives being led to authoritarianism
Private Property - Point
A final key aspect of the Conservatism ideology is private property
Private Property - Explain
When Conservatives view on property is closely tied to its support for tradition & change
Conservatives strongly believe in private ownership within the economy, they believe the ownership of property brings responsibility
Burke believes the ownership of property should be the predominant requirement for participation in political representation
Private Property - Example
Can be seen in the Conservatives promotion of home ownership as a home is the main form of property most people hope to own
Thatcher’s ‘Right to Buy’ scheme allowed council tenants to buy their houses around 1.5 million choosing to buy their homes
Private Property - Analysis
Private property holds significant importance as there are still schemes today to increase home ownership
Current ‘Help to Buy’ scheme involves government lending money to assist low & middle income workers to buy houses
Burke’s belief that it was only natural for upper classes to own property is no longer accepted within modern Conservatism
