Principles of conservatism

Question 1

What is the principle of ‘Change to conserve’ in conservatism?

Answer 1

Reforming in order to maintain and adapt tradition

Question 2

What does ‘Human Imperfection’ signify in conservative thought?

Answer 2

Timeless flaws of humanity, often linked to religious reasons and original sin

Question 3

Define ‘Empiricism’ in the context of conservatism.

Answer 3

Preference for evidence over theory and a focus on what it is, not what should be

Question 4

What does the term ‘Normative’ refer to in conservative ideology?

Answer 4

Sticking to the normal and what works

Question 5

True or False: Conservatives believe the future will always be better than the present.

Answer 5

False

Question 6

What is the conservative view on ‘Hierarchy’?

Answer 6

Leadership should be in the hands of a small number of elites with natural skills

Question 7

Explain ‘Paternalism’ in conservative philosophy.

Answer 7

The elites decide what is in the best interests of the rest of the country

Question 8

What does ‘Noblesse Oblige’ mean?

Answer 8

Ruling class has an obligation to rule in the interests of the entire nation

Question 9

What is the role of ‘Authority’ in conservatism?

Answer 9

A recognised right for those in power to make decisions

Question 10

Define ‘Laissez-Faire’ in economic terms.

Answer 10

Allows the free market to operate freely without state interference

Question 11

What is ‘Thatcherism’?

Answer 11

New right conservatism from 1979-1990, combining neo-liberal economics and neo-conservative social policy

Question 12

What does ‘One-Nation Conservatism’ advocate for?

Answer 12

The unity of all classes, associated with Benjamin Disraeli

Question 13

True or False: Fascism emerged as a form of ultra conservatism in the 1920s and 1930s.

Answer 13

True

Question 14

What is ‘Super nationalism’?

Answer 14

A state whose authority cuts across national borders

Question 15

Define ‘Anti-permissive’ in relation to conservatism.

Answer 15

Links to Thatcherism and goes against identity liberalisation

Question 16

Fill in the blank: Human nature, for conservatives, centres around _______.

Answer 16

Human imperfection

Question 17

What does Hobbes argue about human nature?

Answer 17

Humans are naturally selfish and a strong state is needed to control this

Question 18

What are the four main ideas of a Conservative State?

Answer 18

• The Nation State
• Ruling Class
• Order and Authority
• Organic origins

Question 19

In conservative thought, what is the significance of the ‘Nation State’?

Answer 19

A nation is one mega community, leading to strong nationalism

Question 20

What does a ‘Ruling Class’ represent in conservative ideology?

Answer 20

A hierarchical and elitist society with inherent inequality

Question 21

What is the conservative view on ‘Order and Authority’?

Answer 21

Without order, there is no freedom; a firm authority is needed

Question 22

What are ‘Organic origins’ in the context of a conservative state?

Answer 22

States arise naturally without too much discussion or disruption

Question 23

What is the focus of a Conservative Society?

Answer 23

• Hierarchy and inequality
• Paternalism
• Localism
• Empiricism
• Property
• Judeao-Christian Morality

Question 24

How do conservatives view ‘Property’?

Answer 24

Property should be inherited from one generation to another, providing stability

Question 25

What does a Conservative economy prioritize?

Answer 25

Laissez-Faire capitalism

Question 26

How do traditional conservatives view free market capitalism?

Answer 26

They are sceptical of it, believing it goes against the need for an optimistic view of market forces

Question 27

What is the conservative belief regarding state protection of the free market?

Answer 27

They believe in state protection through tariffs and dues without involving themselves in its actual functions