Types Of Conservatism, Its Thinkers And Historical Examples Flashcards
Thomas Hobbes book
Leviathan 1651 - Talks about human nature is chaotic
Need for state
“Human nature life is nasty brutish and short”
Thomas Hobbs views on human nature
Humans are only motivated by self interest and are not interested in cooperation
Thomas Hobbes views on the state
Arises from individuals who seek order and security. State must be autocratic and awesome to serve its purpose.
Thomas Hobbes views on society
Their can be no society without the creation of a state to bring order to human affairs.
Thomas Hobbes views on the economy
Constructive enduring economic activity is impossible without a state guaranteeing order and security.
Edmund Burke Books
Reflection on the French Revolution.
Edmund Burke views on human nature
Sceptical. The crooked timber of humanity is marked by a gap between aspiration and achievement. Utopian society is impossible to achieve.
Edmund Burke views on the state
The state arises organically and should be aristocratic driven by a hereditary elite
Edmund Burke views on society
Society is organic and multi-faceted.compromising a host of small communities and organisations “little platoons.”
Edmund Burke views on the economy
Trade should involve organic free markets and laissez-faire capitalism.
Michael Oakeshott Books
On Being conservative (1962)
Michael Oakeshott views on human nature
Modest, Humanity at its best when free from grand designs and focus is on every day life.
Michael Oakeshott views on the state
The state should be guided by tradition and practical concerns.
Michael Oakeshott views on society
Localised communities are essential to humanity’s survival especially when guided by short term requirements rather than abstract ideas.
Michael Oakeshott views on the economy
Free markets are volatile and unpredictable and may require pragmatic moderation by the state.
