CONSERVATISM

• How is society compared to an organism in conservative thought?


  Society is viewed as an organism that has developed over time, where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
• Who described society as an organic combination of 'little platoons'?

  Edmund Burke
• What is the relationship between communities, traditions, institutions, and customs in conservative thought?

  They have a symbiotic relationship that is mutually beneficial.
• What does Burke say about the obligations of different sections of society?

  Each section has its own obligations and should "love the little platoon in society to which we belong."
• What is the most important tradition according to Burke?

  Religion, as it is a source of comfort and civilization.
• How does Oakeshott view the application of rational theories to society?

  He believes it is dangerous and that what has stood the test of time should not be discarded lightly.
• What is Hobbes' view on the necessity of a powerful state for society?

  He believes society cannot exist without a powerful state.
• What do neoliberals believe about the role of the state in society?

  They advocate for a minimal state that allows for the emergence of voluntary communities.
• What do One-Nation Conservatives believe regarding state intervention?

  They believe increased state intervention is justified to support the common good and keep society united.
• What is Rand's view on the existence of society?

  She believes society does not exist, only a collection of independent beings.
• What does Nozick mean by 'self-ownership'?

  It means individuals retain control over their bodies, talents, abilities, and labor.
• How does Hobbes view social hierarchy?

  He believes humans are not naturally much stronger or weaker than each other and are not greatly interested in social hierarchy.
• What is Burke's view on the free market?

  He sees the free market as the natural organic state and believes the state should protect laissez-faire capitalism.
• What did Burke describe as "perhaps the most important book ever written"?

  The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith.
• What do neoliberals argue regarding tax and state spending?

  They argue for a massive reduction in tax and state spending on society.
• How does Burke view wealth disparities?

  He suggests that large disparities in wealth are not necessarily bad, as they can facilitate economic growth.
• What is Hobbes' view on the economy?

  He believes the economy would ultimately be controlled by the sovereign, as there can be no structure for property without it.
• What do One-Nation Conservatives emphasize regarding economic inequality?

  They emphasize the importance of social cohesion and the need for the state to address economic inequality.
• What is Nozick's view on taxation?

  He believes that taxation is largely theft from the individual by the state.
• How does Hobbes describe life in a state of nature?

  He describes it as "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short."
• What does Burke argue about political change?

  He argues that political change should be gradual and based on organic growth rather than radical upheaval.
• What is Oakeshott's view on human imperfection?

  He sees humans as "fragile and fallible" and emphasizes the importance of tradition and experience.
• What is Rand's philosophy called?


  Objectivism.
• What does Rand believe about government intervention in the economy?

  She believes government interference leads to inefficiency and corruption.
• What is Nozick's view on the legitimate function of the state?

  He believes the only legitimate function of the state is to protect individual rights through minimal intervention.
• What do conservatives believe about human nature?

  They believe humans are flawed, imperfect beings who require guidance and structure.
• How do conservatives view the relationship between tradition and society?

  They see tradition as underpinning society and essential for stability and continuity.
• What is the conservative view on social hierarchies?

  They believe in a natural hierarchy where the powerful should rule in the interests of the needy.
• What do neoliberals believe about human nature?

  They reject the idea of human imperfection and suggest people can order their lives on a moral and logical basis.
• What is the difference between neoconservatives and one-nation conservatives regarding state support?

  Neoconservatives fear too much state support creates dependency, while one-nation conservatives support state assistance for social cohesion.
• What is the conservative view on change and reform?

  Conservatives believe change should be gradual to maintain stability, rather than reactionary.
• How do conservatives view the role of the state?

  They believe the state should be powerful and stable to maintain order and protect rights.
• What does Burke say about the past and traditional institutions?

  He believes the past should be revered and traditional institutions should not be tampered with.
• What is Oakeshott's view on governance?

  He believes the state should govern based on pragmatism and empiricism, not abstract ideas.
• What is the One-Nation Conservative view on addressing tensions between rich and poor?

  They believe that addressing these tensions is necessary for societal security and stability.
• How does Hobbes view natural rights in relation to the state?


  He believes that individual rights depend entirely on the state's ability to maintain them.
• What is the neoliberal view on individual rights?

  They believe individual rights are more important than those of the state.
• What do neo-conservatives believe about the state?

  They believe a strong state is necessary to preserve law and order.
• What is the conservative view on the importance of community?

  They emphasize the importance of community and social cohesion in human nature.
• How do conservatives view the relationship between law/order and civil liberties?

  They believe there should be a balance between maintaining law/order and protecting civil liberties.