To what extent do Conservatives agree on the importance of paternalism? Flashcards
intro -
Paternalism is the traditional conservative belief that government should be conducted by those best equipped to lead and make decisions through birth, inheritance and upbringing.
para 1 -agree
Traditional conservatives like Burke and Hobbes argued that the innate or hereditary abilities of the social elite gave them the authority to make decisions on society’s behalf and impose on them an obligation to care for the less fortunate. Burke argues how it is the role of this superior governing class to govern in the interest of all. Modern conservatives seem to somewhat maintain this, as since human ability is not evenly distributed, the successful are entitled to their rewards but they also have a social responsibility to look after those who are unable to look after themselves. This idea is perpetrated by Rand, who argues that it is these talented individuals that lay at the heart of successful society.
para 1 - disagree
Although modern conservatives recognise an imbalance of ability in society, they do not believe that this means the more able should rule over the less able. Rand and Nozick argue more in favour of a small, very limited state, that left individuals alone to realise their own talents. Therefore, they do not believe in this idea of paternalism, as they believe all humans are capable to realise their talents.
para 2 - agree
It has been argued that the state is the most appropriate agency through which to deliver social welfare and economic regulation in the interests of all. Due to their pessimistic view of human nature, Hobbes and Burkes believe that the imposition of restriction on society by government is desirable, arguing how without regulation humans would not co-operate, and would act in their own ruthless self interest. Oakeshott seems to somewhat agree with this, as he believes that the state must prevent the bad which is important given his view that perfect societies are impossible. These traditional thinkers believe that this would manifest itself in high taxation and government control of the economy
para 2 - disagree
More modern conservatives however argue that obstacles such as government regulation and high taxation should be removed to release the weal-creating pote4ntial of the free market. Nozick argued how ‘taxation, for the most part is theft’, and he found agreement with Rand over the idea that the market should be free and that self ownership must be made accessible. Furthermore, even despite his views on human nature, Oakeshott still recognises the need for a free market economy.
para 3 - agree
Traditional conservatives argue how government regulation of the economy and social welfare measures are necessary to improve conditions for the poorest. This is coupled with Burke and Hobbes’ ideas that the most able in society would rule in the interest of all, with them arguing that free market capitalism exacerbates inequality. Oakeshott agrees with this to a degree, arguing how it is the role of the state to intervene in order to curb volatility. These views manifested themselves in David Cameron’s austerity measures from 2010, which were used to control the economy after the financial crisis
para 3 - disagree
Modern conservatives argue how the free market is the only mechanism that can efficiently supply goods and services on the basis of consumer demand, whilst determining the ‘natural’ level of unemployment. Nozick and Rand argue how the state must not hinder free markets, and that it should be detached from a privatised and deregulated economy. This brand of conservatism was pursued by Margaret Thatcher, with the state having very little involvement in the economy during her time as Prime Minister.
