Ideology

• It refers to a system of beliefs about how a society should function, behave, and operate. (Heywood, 2007.)

  Ideology
• Functions of ideology

  1. Offers an account of the existing order
  2. Provides a model of a desired social order
  3. Outlines how political change or the desired social order can be achieved
• Set of political beliefs emphasizing individual rights and liberties 


  Liberalism
• Set of political beliefs based on preservation of customs and traditions that define the character of a society 


  Conservatism
• Set of political beliefs emphasizing community and social equality 


  Socialism
• Core principle of liberal ideology

  individualism
• Individual freedom or liberty is the core value of liberalism 


  freedom
• Liberals believe that the world has a rational structure 


  Reasons
• Beliefs that the individuals are 'born equal'.

  Equality
• Willingness to allow others to think, speak, and act in ways which they disapprove 


  Toleration
• Advocates that authority and social relationships should be based on consent or willing agreement 


  Consent
• The central theme of conservative thought or 'the desire to conserve'


  Tradition
• Belief that action should be shaped by practical circumstances or practical goals


  Pragmantism
• Human beings are limited, dependent, and security-seeking creatures


  Human imperfection
• It is always exercised 'from above', providing leadership, guidance, and support for those who lack the knowledge 


  Authority
• It is being vital because it gives people security and a measure of independence from government 


  Property
• The core of socialism is the vision of human beings as social creatures linked by the existence of a common humanity 


  Community
• It is sharing a common humanity 


  Fraternity
• Emphasizes equality of outcome as opposed to equality of opportunity 


  Social equality
• Socialism has traditionally been associated with the interests of an oppressed and exploited working class 


  Social class
• A means of harnessing material resources to the common good


  Common ownership
• Key ideas of liberalism

  1. Individualism
  2. Freedom
  3. Reason
  4. Equality
  5. Toleration
  6. Consent
• Key ideas of conservatism

  1. Tradition
  2. Pragmantism
  3. Human imperfection
  4. Authority
  5. Property
• Key ideas of socialism

  1. Community
  2. Fraternity
  3. Social equality
  4. Need
  5. Social class
  6. Common ownership
• Belief that material benefit should be distributed on the basis of need


  Need