society and the state Flashcards
What do socialists believe shapes society?
The distribution of income and wealth
Socialists define society by ‘class’.
How do individuals with a similar socio-economic outlook perceive society?
They will have similar aims
This leads to differing views between the bourgeoisie and proletariat.
What is the Marxist view on the relationship between the Bourgeoisie and Proletariat?
The success of the Bourgeoisie is based on the exploitation of the Proletariat
This creates an inability for the two classes to coexist.
How do democratic socialists view the class structure?
As a necessary evil that should be made fairer
This aims to reduce the wealth gap between classes.
How do socialists tend to perceive the role of the state?
Through the realms of class structure
This perspective shapes their views on governance.
What do Marxists believe about the state under capitalism?
It is a negative force that protects the ruling classes
They argue that the state can only be good if it controls the means of production.
What is the democratic socialist perspective on the state?
A force for good to combat the evils of capitalism
This is reflected in support for a strong welfare state.
Fill in the blank: Marxists believe the state can only be a force for good if it _______.
controls the means of production
What socialist policies should be researched to help the most vulnerable in society?
Three policies proposed by the Labour Party
Corbyn is a suggested starting point for this research.
How does conservatism view society?
Society is organic, built over time, held together by traditions and institutions
This perspective emphasizes the continuity and preservation of societal structures.
What is the responsibility of current generations according to conservatism?
To preserve the organic society for future generations, as done by those before us
This reflects a commitment to legacy and intergenerational responsibility.
Complete the quote: ‘society is indeed a contract … not only between those who are living, but between those who are living, those who are dead, and those who _______.
are to be born
What role does the state play in conservatism?
The state is an essential instrument for instilling discipline in society
It provides order, security, and authority necessary for a functional society.
According to conservatives, what is necessary for human freedom?
Order and discipline
This suggests that freedom is not absolute but requires a framework to be meaningful.
True or False: A conservative supports equality in society.
False
Conservatives believe the state must reflect a hierarchy in which authority is not equally distributed.
