Modern Conservatism

What is modern conservatism?

• also referred to as the ‘New Right’

• inspired by Ayn Rand and the idea of “morality of rational self-interest” - human nature is selfish

• implies a lack of need for state intervention

• BUT for the continued successful implementation of rational self-interest, the influence of the state should be as limited as possible - he state should only be responsible for the most basic aspects of our lives

State intervention

• the state should only be responsible in a very limited manner, in areas such as:

  • providing armed forces

  • providing police forces/system

  • a judiciary

These aspects of the state are necessary in maintaining the protection of property rights, and as such they oppose spending on welfare

• Robert Nozick argues that the existence of a welfare state creates a sense of dependency

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