New Right conservatism

Question 1

In the USA…

Answer 1

 More emphasis on individual freedom, laissez faire capitalism, private property and
minimal government.
 Reflected the communities that emerged organically after discovery of the New
World.
 Many traditions were essentially liberal but blended with others that were more
conservative, e.g. Christian morality, respect for marriage and family life, intense
patriotism, belief in strong albeit limited government.
 Synthesis between classical liberalism and social conservatism.
 From 1970s onwards, conservatives in Europe began to favour this model.

Question 2

The ‘crisis’ of traditional conservatism

Answer 2

 Spiralling inflation, unemployment, unsustainable welfare spending, increased crime
rates, moral laxity and trade union militancy.
 For the New Right, this represented an indictment of traditional conservatism who
were complicit in a rapidly declining economy, bloated welfare state, permissive
society and increasingly feeble country – the sick man of Europe.
 Struggling to resist socialism at home and communism abroad.
 New interpretation and policies of conservatism urgently needed.

Question 3

A two dimensional doctrine emerges

Answer 3

 A merger between neo-liberalism and neo-conservatism. Economically liberal yet
socially conservative.
 Neo-liberalism’s aims; extend individual freedom by rolling back the frontiers of the state; free market economy; reduction in taxation; tighter control of gov. spending; end to dependency culture; deregulation and privatisation; neutering of obstructive bodies such as trade unions.
 Neo-conservatism’s aims; restoration of authority, national identity and society informed by Judaeo-Christian morality. Therefore, a tougher approach on law and order, more robust approach to enemies (less conciliatory), less tolerance of immigration and anti-permissive social policies (abortion, sexuality).

Question 4

Is the NR contradictory? - YES

Answer 4

Neoliberals wish to roll back the frontiers of the state (privatisation), neoconservatives wish to roll forward (restrictions on trade unions and local authorities).
Neoliberals wish to advance individual liberty (e.g. tax cuts) whereas neoconservatives prepared to restrict freedom (extension of police stop + search powers, intolerance of homosexuality Clause 28 Gov. Act 1988).
Neoliberals relaxed about immigration, neoconservatives much more wary. Neoliberals keen to minimise gov. spending (minarchist state), neoconservatives prepared to increase it to strengthen nation’s profile (e.g. upgrade UK’s nuclear deterrent, financial commitment to defence of Falklands).
New Right endorse a monetarist approach rather than ‘supply side’.

Question 5

Is the NR contrastive? NO

Answer 5

Neoliberals with optimistic view of human nature fail to anticipate tensions arising from free market capitalism where inequality flourishes, therefore require a strong state to maintain law and order and protect private property.
To achieve low taxation must reduce state welfare so restoration of traditional morality and end to permissive society should lead to restoration of supporting families and altruistic behaviour – individual responsibility. Private compassion and social security.
Neoconservatives wish to strengthen the state by reinforcing police, etc. This requires state funding – neoliberals claim this is easier when spending is reduced in other areas.