Ideology

What is ideology from a social-scientific viewpoint?

A coherent set of ideas that provides a basis for organized political action.

What are the three key functions of ideologies?

Offer an account of the existing order, provide a model of a desired future, and outline how political change can be brought about.

Who coined the term 'ideology' and in what year?

Destutt de Tracy in 1796.

According to Karl Marx, what does ideology represent?

The ideas of the ruling class that perpetuate the class system.

What does 'false consciousness' refer to in Marxist theory?

It refers to the ideology that mystifies subordinate classes, preventing them from recognizing their exploitation.

What did Daniel Bell declare in 'The End of Ideology' (1960)?

That the stock of political ideas had been exhausted and ethical questions became irrelevant in Western politics.

What is the central theme of classical liberalism?

A commitment to extreme individualism and negative liberty.

What did modern liberalism shift towards?

A more sympathetic attitude towards state intervention, supporting welfare reform and economic regulation.

Define paternalism in conservative thought.

An attitude that demonstrates care for those unable to help themselves, similar to a father-child relationship.

What significant change did the UK Conservatives adopt in the 1950s?

A middle way approach emphasizing a blend of market competition and government regulation.

What is the definition of socialism?

A political and economic theory advocating for social ownership and democratic control of the means of production.

How did fascism oppose previous political ideologies?

It revolted against values like rationalism, progress, equality, and freedom in favor of struggle, leadership, and power.

What is the core belief of anarchism?

That political authority, especially the state, is both unnecessary and evil.

What are the main forms of feminism mentioned in the notes?

Liberal feminism, socialist feminism, and radical feminism.

What is green politics concerned with?

Environmental damage from economic development and a non-anthropocentric view of nature.

What characterizes modern cosmopolitanism?

It emphasizes a moral and cultural character, focusing on obligations to individuals globally, not political communities.