conservatism basics

• How does conservatism differ from liberalism and socialism in terms of human nature?

  Conservatism views humans as flawed and imperfect, dismissing the idea of a utopian society.
• Who is one of the key thinkers associated with conservative views on human nature?

  Hobbes
• What does Hobbes believe about human nature?

  Hobbes believes humans are ruthless, selfish, and competitive, requiring formal authority to prevent chaos.
• How does another key conservative thinker view human behavior compared to Hobbes?

  Another key thinker emphasizes custom, habit, and experience over rationality in guiding behavior.
• What does Oakshott associate with conservatism?

  Oakshott associates conservatism with an innate fear of the unknown and resistance to change.
• What is the concept of "little platoons" in conservative thought?

  Little platoons refer to local communities that provide security and inspiration to individuals.
• What famous quote did Margaret Thatcher make regarding society?


  Margaret Thatcher stated, "There is no such thing as society, only individuals."
• How do conservatives view society compared to liberals and socialists?

  Conservatives view society as organic and emerging naturally, rather than something that can be created or molded.
• What is the conservative approach to tradition and change?

  Conservatives resist radical change and place great importance on tradition.
• What moral framework influences conservative societies?

  Judeo-Christian morals and traditions.
• How do conservatives view hierarchy and inequality?

  Conservatives accept hierarchy and inequality as natural and necessary in society.
• What is the conservative perspective on property ownership?


  Property ownership is seen as essential for creating a law-abiding and community-oriented society.
• What is protectiveism in conservative economic policy?

  Protectiveism involves imposing tariffs on imported goods to protect domestic industries.
• Who is a modern example of a leader who embraced protectionism?

  President Trump.
• How does the new right differ from traditional conservatism regarding the economy?

  The new right fully embraces free markets and opposes protectionism.
• What is Reaganomics?


  Reaganomics refers to the economic policies of President Reagan that emphasized free markets and reduced government intervention.
• What do conservatives believe about the role of the state?

  Conservatives believe the state should emerge organically and deal with reality rather than ideology.
• What is the conservative view on individual freedom?

  Conservatives believe individual freedom exists within the framework of law and order established by the state.
• How do conservatives view the ruling class?

  Conservatives believe in a ruling class that is educated and prepared to govern.
• What is the significance of the nation-state in conservative ideology?

  The nation-state is vital for national identity and is imbued with tradition and connection to political leaders.
• How did early conservatism react to the French Revolution?

  Early conservatism was a reaction against the French Revolution and Enlightenment ideas, promoting resistance to radical change.
• What is one nation conservatism, and who are its key figures?

  One nation conservatism promotes paternalism and national unity, with key figures like Disraeli and Bismarck.
• How does traditional conservatism respond to socialism and fascism?

  Traditional conservatism promotes moderate reform to avoid extremes like socialism and fascism.
• What is Christian democracy, and where is it primarily found?

  Christian democracy is a socially conservative ideology linked to religious morality, primarily found in continental Europe.
• What characterizes new right conservatism in the USA?

  New right conservatism in the USA is characterized by laissez-faire economics, small government, and strong Christian morality.
• How does new right conservatism reconcile its economic and social views?

  New right conservatism is economically liberal but socially conservative, emphasizing military spending and law enforcement.
• What are the key themes and developments in conservatism over time?

  • Reaction against revolution, especially the French Revolution
  • Traditional conservatism promoting paternalism and national unity
  • Moderate reforms to counter socialism and fascism
  • Emergence of Christian democracy in Europe
  • Development of new right conservatism with laissez-faire economics
• What are the main characteristics of conservative ideology?

  • Skepticism about human nature
  • Emphasis on tradition and gradual change
  • Acceptance of hierarchy and inequality
  • Importance of property ownership
  • Preference for organic societal development