Response to egalitarianism and fascism

Question 1

pre 1930

Answer 1

 Spread of socialism and communism after WWI and emergence of fascism prior to WWII had
profound impact on evolution of conservatism.
 Soviet Union was most powerful example of the threat posed by egalitarianism – inherently
challenged beliefs in property, hierarchy and modest reform.
 This fear was underlined by the extension of the franchise in 1918 and accelerated growth of
new party Labour which was committed to wholesome common ownership.
 Prominent inter-war conservatives, e.g. future Tory PM Harold Macmillan spoke of a ‘middle
way’ between capitalism and socialism, addressing economic inequality while respecting
core beliefs.

Question 2

post 1930

Answer 2

 In the 1930s the state sanctioned much greater degree of state intervention so at to protect
privilege and stifle socialism – conservative politicians supported Public Health, Housing and
Factory Acts.
 After 1945, took further steps towards ‘big government’.
 Across Western Europe, conservatives yielded to many ideas from rival ideologies –
democratic socialism and modern liberalism.
 Embraced Keynesian economics, welfare state, and mixed economies involving extensive
state ownership of industries and services.
 Argued these were little more updated expressions of their belief in one-nation and
paternalism (when criticised that Conservatism conserved no principles).