Political Parties

• What is the core belief of conservative values regarding social structure?


  Society is naturally structured in a hierarchy.
• Who is a notable philosopher that justified hierarchical structures in society?

  Thomas Hobbes
• What is the purpose of hierarchical structures in society according to conservatives?


  To maintain order and stability.
• What role do tradition and social norms play in conservative values?


  They shape societal norms through institutions like churches and monarchies.
• What was Thatcher's Section 28 policy about?


  It prohibited the promotion of homosexuality in schools.
• How did David Cameron's legalization of same-sex marriage in 2014 contrast with previous conservative policies?


  It marked a significant shift in conservative social policy.
• What do conservatives advocate for in terms of national security?


  A strong military and police force.
• Why do conservatives believe in a robust defense system?


  Because security is a fundamental responsibility of the government.
• What was the government's response to the National Union of Miners' strike in 1984?


  Thatcher's government prepared police forces to maintain order.
• How is wealth viewed in conservative ideology?


  As a measure of success and a means to maintain social order.
• What does 'Noblesse oblige' imply in conservative thought?


  The wealthy have a responsibility to support the less fortunate.
• How did Thatcher's Single European Act and Brexit reflect conservative economic pragmatism?


  They aimed at stabilizing the economy.
• What is the conservative approach to empirical evidence and practical solutions?


  They prioritize empirical evidence over ideological purity.
• What was an example of pragmatism in Boris Johnson's policies during the COVID-19 pandemic?


  Tax increases that contradicted traditional low-tax principles.
• What characterized Thatcher's governance in terms of economic intervention?


  Minimal government intervention in the economy.
• What was the historical impact of Thatcher's policies on the UK economy?


  Transformed the UK from the 'sick man of Europe' to a dynamic economy.
• What major tax reform did Thatcher implement during her governance?


  Reducing the top rate of income tax from 80% to 60%.
• What was the effect of floating the exchange rate during Thatcher's tenure?


  It allowed for greater flexibility in monetary policy.
• What significant opposition did Thatcher's government face?


  Opposition from trade unions.
• How did Thatcher's approach to social issues differ from traditional paternalism?


  She favored individualism and capitalism.
• What were some controversial policies during Thatcher's governance?


  The Poll Tax and the Spare Bedroom Tax.
• What is the legacy of Thatcher's governance regarding social issues?


  Economic revitalization and social division.
• Who championed One Nation Conservatism in the 1860s?


  Benjamin Disraeli.
• What did Disraeli's philosophy emphasize in One Nation Conservatism?


  The importance of national unity and elite responsibility.
• How does 'Noblesse oblige' relate to One Nation Conservatism?


  It reflects the moral duty of the privileged to support societal stability.
• What are the key differences between One Nation Conservatism and Thatcherism?


  • **Economic Model**:
  • One Nation: Mixed economy
  • Thatcherism: Free market/Neoliberalism
  • **Social Policy**:
  • One Nation: Gradualist reforms
  • Thatcherism: Radical changes
  • **Focus**:
  • One Nation: Social cohesion
  • Thatcherism: Individualism
• What was David Cameron's aim during his leadership of the Conservative Party?


  To 'detoxify' the Conservative Party and shift towards a more centrist approach.
• What were some key initiatives during David Cameron's leadership?


  Welfare reforms and the introduction of the 'Big Society' concept.
• What ongoing challenges does the Conservative Party face?


  Balancing traditional values with modern societal expectations.
• How do issues like Brexit and economic inequality affect the Conservative Party's agenda?


  They continue to shape the party's agenda and public perception.
• What is a critical concern for future leadership of the Conservative Party?


  The need for a cohesive identity amidst internal divisions.
• Hierarchy


  Belief in natural social order of rulers and ruled.
• Tradition


  Value placed on historical institutions like family and church.
• Security


  Emphasis on strong military and police forces.
• Wealth and Privilege


  Focus on property ownership and economic status.
• Empiricism


  Knowledge gained only through experience and observation.
• Pragmatism


  Practical approach to governance, prioritizing stability.
• Paternalism


  Responsibility of the elite to care for the lower classes.
• Dogmatic


  Adherence to beliefs without critical evaluation.
• Gradualism


  Slow reforms to prevent social unrest.