conservatism

pragmatism

• Core Principle:

  • Decisions should be flexible and based on practical results, not rigid ideology or dogma.

• Historical Context:

  • Conservatism arose as opposition to the French Revolution, which was seen (by thinkers like Burke) as a dangerous break from tradition.

• Approach to Society and State:

  • Conservatives advocate caution, respecting evidence and accumulated tradition in decision-making.

• Michael Oakeshott’s View:

  • To be conservative means preferring the familiar and tried over the unknown and untested.

  • Values: fact over mystery, actual over possible, limited over unbounded, near over distant, sufficient over superabundant, convenient over perfect, and present laughter over utopian bliss.

• Rejection of Utopianism:

  • Pragmatism involves avoiding idealistic, utopian visions that might disrupt social hierarchy and traditions.

• Change and Stability:

  • Change is accepted but must be gradual to maintain social stability and conserve essential principles.

Thinker

Traditional

• Burke

• Hobbes

New right

• rand

• Nozick

One nation

• oakeshott

• Disraeli

core ideas

• pragmatism

• tradition

• Meritocracy

• organic society

• paternalism

• Property ownership

tradition

• Tradition = accumulated wisdom of the past that guides present decisions.

• Supports key institutions like the monarchy and Church of England as pillars of stability.

• Essential for maintaining social stability and security.

• Change should be cautious, gradual, and organic—not abrupt or radical.

• Tradition reflects collective experiences and lessons learned over time, not just customs.

• Empiricism: tradition values what has been tried and tested and proven to work in society.

human imperfection

• Humans are inherently flawed and incapable of making perfect decisions.

• This view contrasts with the liberal belief in rational, perfectible humans.

• Hobbes’ Leviathan portrays life without strong authority as chaotic and violent, due to humans’ ruthless self-interest.

• Conservatives believe human imperfection is constant, so society and politicians must work with it, not against it.

• psychological- intellectual - moral imperfection

Meritocracy

• effort and work should be rewarded

• Laisaez faire economy and low taxes

Property ownership

• Strong support for capitalism and property rights.

• Rooted in pragmatism, tradition, and the concept of organic society.

• Capitalism seen as the most practical and efficient economic system, proven to generate wealth and improve living standards.

• Conservatives are wary of radical state intervention in the economy; prefer gradual evolution over engineered change.

• Comfortable with economic inequality as a natural outcome of capitalism and social hierarchy.

• Capitalism regarded as part of the accumulated wisdom and tradition that sustains society.

• Organic society: society is a living, interconnected whole, not just individuals; change should be organic, not imposed.

• Property ownership is crucial for social stability:

  • Encourages personal responsibility.

  • Discourages support for socialism by tying individuals to the existing social order.

  • Ownership rights are integral to the social fabric and the health of society overall.

organic society

• Organic society/state is a core conservative idea: society and state develop naturally, not by design.

• Society is like a living organism that evolves gradually; change should be slow and evolutionary.

• Oakeshott’s boat analogy: politics is like steering a boat carefully to stay afloat, not heading toward utopian visions.

• Tradition and empiricism guide conservatives to value past and present lessons over idealistic futures.

• Authority and hierarchy are natural, necessary parts of society, emerging organically over time.

• Conservatives oppose codifying the UK constitution because it reflects centuries of flexible, organic development.

• The British unwritten constitution exemplifies an adaptable, tradition-based system preferred over rigid, planned structures.

paternalism

• society works best when it is unequal

• Conservatives view authority, when exercised responsibly by the upper classes, as a force for good.

• Paternalism is about responsible governance that considers the welfare of all citizens, enhancing social fabric and maintaining stability.

• Rooted in the belief in human imperfection.

• Believe that individuals benefit from the guidance and support of those in power.

• the wisest, strongest and wealthiest should govern society and take responsibility for lower classes

  • hierarchy

  • noblesse oblige

  • ruling class

noblesse oblige

• paternalistic duty of those in power

key principles of traditional conservatives

• Core Beliefs of Traditional Conservatism:

  • Tradition and Wisdom

    • Tradition embodies the accumulated wisdom of previous generations.

    • It provides guidance and stability and should be preserved.

  • Pragmatism

    • Change is accepted if it is necessary to preserve social order.

    • Conservatives support gradual and cautious reform rather than radical change.

  • Property and Stability

    • Private property ownership promotes personal responsibility and social stability.

    • It discourages revolutionary or radical political movements.

  • Hierarchy and Authority

    • Hierarchy is seen as natural, reflecting human differences in ability and responsibility.

    • Authority ensures order and should be respected.

  • Organic Society

    • Society is like a living organism: complex, interdependent, and evolving naturally.

    • It cannot be redesigned or planned like a machine.

  • Human Imperfection

    • Humans are morally flawed and intellectually limited.

    • Society must be structured to manage these imperfections through order, tradition, and authority.

one nation conservatists believe in

• noblesse oblige

• national Unity: Emphasizing national unity and shared values was essential to countering the class divisions used by socialists.

• Bridging the Divide: Promoting national identity aimed to bridge the divide between classes, uniting society around common goals and values.

• Maintaining Hierarchy: Crucially maintaining hierarchy and preventing threats to tradition in society.

• paternalistic duty of rich to look after the poor

• state sponsored social reform to counteract permissive society

• restrictions on laissez faire capitalism

• chnage to conserve

• support keynesian , welfare states and mixed economies

• pragmatic approaches

• key thinker - oakeshott and Disraeli

new right conservatism beliefs

• individual freedom and atomism (self interest)

• reduction in taxation and gov spending

• reduce size state

• laisses faire and free markets with deregulation and privatisation

• private property

• minimal gov and welfare

• tough law and order

• strong national defence

• immigration restrictions

• traditional social values and anti permissiveness (rejection cultural reform of 60’s/70’s

key thinkers - rand , nozick

emergence of new right

• Reaction Against One-Nation Conservatism

  • Viewed One-Nation Conservatism as overly accommodating socialist policies.

  • Sought to return to "true" conservative principles.

• Growth and Influence

  • Gained momentum in the US through neoliberalism and neoconservatism.

  • These ideas were then imported and adapted in the UK.

• Key Figures

  • Margaret Thatcher (UK)

  • Ronald Reagan (US)

• Debate on Conservatism

  • Some argue the New Right blends conservatism with classical liberalism, especially in economic and state roles.

  • Emphasizes free markets and individual freedoms over state intervention.

Combination of Neoliberalism and Neoconservatism

• Neoliberalism

  • Minimal state intervention in the economy.

  • Strong belief in free markets and individual entrepreneurship.

  • Rooted in classical liberalism.

• Neoconservatism

  • Emphasizes traditional social values, strong national defense, and law and order.

  • More conservative on social policy compared to neoliberalism.

• Thatcher as an Example

  • Embodied both neoliberal economic policies and neoconservative social policies

Thomas Hobbes- traditional cons

• Hobbes predates conservatism but shares key ideas relevant to traditional conservative thought.

• His work is foundational for understanding conservative views on human nature and the state’s role in maintaining order.

• Leviathan is Hobbes’ most important work, shaping conservative principles about authority and governance.

• Hobbes’ key ideas:

  • Without a strong state, life in the “state of nature” would be “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.”

  • Humans are naturally ruthless, calculating, and self-interested, leading to conflict without order.

  • A strong state (the Leviathan) is necessary to enforce laws, maintain peace, and prevent chaos or civil war.

• Hobbes argued individuals must surrender some rights to the state to ensure security and social stability.

• His emphasis on strong governance and order influenced later conservatives who value stability and authority in society.

Edmund Burke

• Edmund Burke is often called the father of conservatism, shaped by his reaction to the French Revolution.

• He opposed the French Revolution for trying to overthrow traditional aristocratic and religious institutions based on Enlightenment ideals.

• Tradition and Empiricism:

  • Burke valued tradition as accumulated wisdom, linking past, present, and future.

  • His opposition partly stemmed from the Revolution’s disregard for tradition.

• Gradual Evolution and Organic Change:

  • Advocated for slow, cautious, organic change that respects and preserves tradition.

  • Acknowledged change is necessary but must be gradual to conserve society.

  • Famous quote: “A state without the means of some change is without the means of its conservation.”

• Human Imperfection and Little Platoons:

  • Believed humans are inherently flawed, influenced by original sin.

  • Emphasized the role of tradition and guidance in managing human nature.

  • Highlighted importance of “little platoons” — smaller local communities that nurture social order and values.

Michael Oakeshott

• Often linked to One-Nation Conservatism but more accurately described as a traditional conservative.

• Restated and reinforced traditional conservative principles in the early 20th century.

• Pragmatism:

  • Emphasized practicality over ideology in politics.

  • Advocated for respecting tradition and cautious, incremental change rather than radical reforms or utopian designs.

• Human Imperfection:

  • Believed humans are inherently imperfect and fallible.

  • Differed slightly from harsher views by suggesting humans are not inherently evil or destructive.

  • Agreed with Burke on the importance of guidance and institutions to channel human behavior positively.

ayn rand

• Ayn Rand (1905–1982):

  • Russian-American novelist and philosopher.

  • Witnessed the Bolshevik Revolution, influencing her strong opposition to collectivism and statism.

  • Key works include Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead.

• Objectivism:

  • Moral philosophy centered on rational self-interest and the pursuit of one’s own happiness as the highest moral aim.

  • Opposed altruism, arguing it creates dependency and weakens individual achievement.

  • Believed individuals best serve society by prioritizing their own well-being and independence.

  • Famous quote: “The man who attempts to live for others is a dependent... makes parasites of those he serves.”

• Freedom and Laissez-faire Capitalism:

  • Advocated individual freedom as fundamental.

  • Supported a limited state, restricted to protecting individual rights (e.g., life, liberty, property).

  • Endorsed free-market capitalism (laissez-faire) as the only system compatible with individual rights and rational self-interest.

  • Opposed state intervention in economic and social affairs.

Robert Nozick

• Robert Nozick:

  • Philosopher associated with libertarianism and the New Right.

  • Key work: Anarchy, State, and Utopia.

• Libertarianism:

  • Emphasizes individual rights as paramount.

  • The state’s role should be minimal: enforcing contracts, protecting individuals from force and fraud.

  • Opposes redistributive state functions like welfare, viewing them as violations of individual liberty.

  • Famous claim: “The minimal state is the most extensive state that can be justified.”

• Self-Ownership:

  • Individuals have sovereignty over their bodies and the products of their labor.

  • Redistribution via taxation is seen as a form of forced labor and a violation of property rights.

  • Stresses voluntary exchange and free consent in property and labor transactions.

• Moral Principle:

  • “Individuals have rights, and there are things no person or group may do to them (without violating their rights).”

hierarchy

• Regard hierarchal structures as natural and necessary for maintaining order and stability.

• Believe people are inherently different in terms of abilities and talents, leading to different roles and statuses.

• Hierarchal structure ensures that those best suited to leadership and decision-making roles are in positions where they can be most effective.

Explain and analyse three ways that Conservative thinkers have viewed the state.

P1- Traditional Conservatism

• Authoritarian and Hierarchical State-

• Hobbes-

• maintain order and prevent societal collapse-

• Strong leviathan

• Burke state as a stabilising force- a necessary structure to preserve traditions, maintain social cohesion, and prevent disorder- organic society

P2-One-Nation Conservatism

• Paternalistic and Pragmatic State-

• -oakeshott pragmatic- maintain state- no radical changes- necessary force but not overreach

• duty of the ruling elite to provide some social welfare-

• Disraeli’s Cons gov passed social reforms 1875 Public Health Act

P3-New Right Conservatism

• Minimal and Free-Market State-

• rand and nozick-

• reduced role of the state- views excessive state intervention as a threat to individual liberty-

• state should focus on maintaining law and order-

• Thatcher 80s pursued extensive privatisation, deregulation, and tax cuts to reduce state influence on the economy-

• “There is no such thing as society,”

Explain and analyse three ways that Conservative thinkers have viewed human nature.

P1- Traditional Conservatism

• Human Imperfection and the Need for Order-

• Hobbes and Burke- naturally flawed, selfish, and morally imperfect- require strong institutions life - poor, nasty, brutish, and short,”-

• Burke human nature was shaped by tradition and social institutions -

• justifies conservative support for a strong state, law, and order

P2-One-Nation Conservatism

• Paternalistic and Socially Responsible -

• Oakeshott- humanity both benign and benevolent - neutral and loving but still fragile- fallible but not terrible

• society has a duty to care for its most vulnerable-

• Sybil (1845) warned of the dangers of a divided society-

• Macmillan supported a mixed economy and the welfare state to ensure social stability-

• conservative support for moderate state intervention and social policies that preserve order while preventing revolution

P3- New Right Conservatism

• Rational Self-Interest and Individualism-

• neoliberal wing- individuals should be free to pursue their own economic -

• Rand argued in Atlas Shrugged (1957) leads to human flourishing and economic progress.-

• Thatcher 'no such thing as society' privatization, tax cuts, and welfare reduction, arguing that humans are most productive when left to their own devices

Explain and analyse three ways that Conservative thinkers have viewed society.

P1- Traditional Conservatism –

• Society as Organic and Hierarchical-

• Burke- reject rationalism or revolution-

• Burke in Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790)

• society is a partnership between the past, present, and future, emphasizing

• strong emphasis on tradition, monarchy, and established social structures, resisting radical change-

• critics argue it leads to social stagnation and ignores injustices in existing hierarchies

P2-One-Nation Conservatism

• Society as a Community with Mutual Obligations-

• disraeli- social cohesion through a balance between economic freedom and some level of state intervention-

• Disraeli’s Sybil argued a divided society is “as if they were inhabitants of different planets.”-

• Macmillan in the 1950s, supported welfare policies and a mixed economy to promote social harmony

P3-New Right Conservatism –

• Society as a Collection of Individuals-

• no society only mass indiviudal RAND- role of government should be minimal-

• thatcher “There is no such thing as society,” -

• Hayek in The Road to Serfdom (1944) argued that collectivist policies undermine freedom and economic prosperity-

• justifies free-market policies, deregulation, and welfare reduction- Nozick society should promote individual self-fulfilment

Explain and analyse three ways that Conservative thinkers have viewed government.

P1- Traditional Conservatism

• Gov Strong Authority Ensuring Order

• hobbes and burke-

• human nature is flawed, a strong government is necessary-

• Hobbes in Leviathan (1651) argued that without a strong government, society would fall into chaos-

• Burke, in Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790), opposed radical change and emphasized that government should preserve tradition and continuity- justifies strong leadership, monarchy, and law-and-order policies

P2-One-Nation Conservatism

• Gov Paternalistic Force Promoting National Unity-

• disraeli- duty to reduce social divisions and promote stability-

• Disraeli’s social reforms, such as the 1875 Public Health Act, -

• Macmillan supported state intervention in the economy maintain social harmony- a

• argue that this leads to excessive state control

P3-New Right Conservatism

• Gov Minimal Institution Enabling Economic Freedom-

• nozick and rand- should focus on law and order, defense, and protecting property rights-

• thatcher’s government in the 1980s reduced state intervention by privatizing industries, cutting taxes, and rolling back welfare programs-

• Reagan’s policies in the U.S. reflected similar ideas- justifies deregulation, privatization, and tax cuts- critics argue that it leads to social inequality and weakens traditional conservative commitments-

Explain and analyse three ways that Conservative thinkers have viewed the economy.

P1- Traditional Conservatism –

• The Economy Natural Hierarchy Requiring Stability and Protection-

• organic structure develop naturally over time-

• Burke in Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790) warned against rapid economic upheaval-

• Conservative governments of the 19th century protected traditional industries and landowning interests, resisting laissez-faire extremes- perspective justifies protectionist policies, moderate state intervention, and a respect for economic tradition-

P2-One-Nation Conservatism

• capitalism is good

• The Economy as a Tool for Social Cohesion with Limited Intervention

• Oakeshott Skeptical of state intervention on free markets

• support capitalism but believe the state has a role in mitigating economic inequality- advocate for a mixed economy-

• Disraeli’s social reforms, such as factory acts, sought to improve working conditions while maintaining a capitalist economy-

• Macmillan’s post-war Conservative government supported Keynesian economic policies, nationalizing industries and maintaining a welfare state

P3-New Right Conservatism

• The Economy as a Free-Market System with Minimal State Interference-

• RAND free markets with no state intervention-

• NOZICK any redistribution of wealth is an attack on freedom.- role should be limited to protecting property rights, enforcing contracts, and ensuring low taxation and regulation

• Thatcher’s economic policies in the 1980s, including privatization of state industries and reducing union power, were based on New Right principles-

Explain and analyse three ways that the concept of tradition is significant to Conservative thinkers.

P1- Tradition as a Source of Wisdom and Stability (Traditional Conservatism)-

• burke- argue that institutions, customs, and moral values have evolved over time because they have proven effective in maintaining order-

• criticized the French Revolution for rejecting traditional institutions

• monarchy and the Church, seeing them as essential pillars of society-

• justifies gradual, evolutionary change rather than radical reform

P2- Tradition as a Unifying Force That Maintains Social Cohesion (One-Nation Conservatism)

• role of the state is to preserve traditions while adapting to change in a pragmatic way to prevent class conflict-

• oakeshott- shouldnt radically chnage society- keep as it is - state maintain

• Disraeli’s Sybil (1845) warned of a divided society-

• supported national symbols, such as the monarchy and patriotic traditions-

• Critics argue that relying too much on tradition can exclude marginalized groups

P3- Tradition as a Cultural Identity That Should Be Preserved Against Modernity (New Right Conservatism)-

• argue that modern liberal trends, such as multiculturalism and progressive social policies, threaten national identity and traditional family structures

• NOZICK- Thatcher emphasized "Victorian values" in her leadership- justifies policies restricting immigration to protect national traditions-

• view is overly resistant to necessary cultural evolution and can be exclusionary

Explain and analyse three ways that the concept of authority is significant to Conservative thinkers.

P1- Authority as a Natural and Necessary Hierarchy (Traditional Conservatism)

• Society functions best when people accept their place within a structured order-

• Burke defended the authority of the monarchy and aristocracy as overturning leads to chaos-

• Leviathan, original sin

• perspective justifies respect for long-standing institutions-

• Critics argue that it prevents social mobility and maintains outdated power structures

P2-Authority as a Means of Ensuring Social Cohesion and Responsibility (One-Nation Conservatism)-

• noblesse oblige

• state as authority to protecvt humans but not overreach

• authority as a paternalistic force-
  Disraeli’s idea of “paternalism” -

• Oakeshott pragmatic policies - welfare state- Keynesian

• post-war consensus in Britain welfare-

• justifies moderate state intervention and responsible leadership

P3-

• rand and nozick more dogmatic than oakeshott

• No noblesse oblige

• Minarchist state

• Thatcher- meritocracy is needed not given

• Low taxes and rewarding hard work

• But Reagan and thatcher do highlight strong law and order

• However doesn’t alleviate oppression or class divide

Explain and analyse three ways that the concept of private property significant to Conservative thinkers.

P1- Private Property as a Source of Stability and Tradition (Traditional Conservatism)

• linked to heritage, continuity, and stability in society.-

• Stake in society

• Hobbes- reason follow law and order

• Burke is central to maintaining order,-

• justifies property rights as a way to uphold social order and prevent radical change- monarchy church

• Critics argue that inherited wealth leads to inequality- Disraeli 2 nations

P2-Private Property as a Means of Fostering Social Responsibility and National Unity (One-Nation Conservatism)

• State intervention may be justified to expand property ownership-

• Disraeli’s "Tory Democracy" promoted policies that aimed to reduce social divisions, including support for home ownership-

• Oakeshott pragmatism to provide security

• "Right to Buy" scheme under Margaret Thatcher (1980s)

P3-Private Property as Essential to Economic Freedom and Prosperity (New Right Conservatism)-

• creates incentives for productivity, investment, and wealth creation-

• Rand: Property as an extension of individual effort and rational self-interest- State interference is viewed as a threat-

• Meritocracy

• Nozick atomistic society

• thatcher’s privatization policies in the 1980s justifies deregulation, tax cuts, and minimal government intervention in the economy

Explain and analyse three ways that Conservative thinkers have viewed the individual.

P1 Inherently Flawed and Dependent on Tradition and Authority (Traditional Conservatism)

• individuals would create instability and chaos-

• Burke individuals need the guidance of long-standing institutions like the monarchy-

• Hobbes- life would be "nasty, brutish, and short."-

• view justifies the need for strong leadership, respect for traditions, and resistance to radical individualism

P2-The Individual as Part of a Collective National Community with Social Obligations (One-Nation Conservatism)-

• should not act purely in self-interest

• paternalistic role

• Macmillan, embraced welfare policies that balanced individual opportunity-

P3-The Individual as Rational, Self-Reliant, and Best Served by Minimal State Interference-

• nozick - reject excessive state intervention- view champions free markets, self-sufficiency, and meritocracy-

• rand Believes in the moral superiority of capitalism and individual enterprise -

• Thatcher “There is no such thing as society,” -

• Nozick’s- Argues that individuals should be free to acquire and transfer property without state interference- thatcher right to buy

Neoclassical liberal

• new right beliefs

• Ideological branch

implementation of traditional conservatism

• Support for Monarchy & Church

  • Traditional conservatives upheld monarchy and the Church of England as central pillars of authority and social order.

• Catholic Emancipation Act (1829)

  • Conservatives initially opposed it, fearing it would disrupt national unity and Protestant tradition.

• Hierarchy & Order

  • Maintained a rigid class structure and emphasized law, order, and authority.

• Robert Peel – Law & Order 👮

  • Founded the Metropolitan Police in 1829.

  • Emphasized community-based policing and societal cohesion.

  • Embodied conservative pragmatism and respect for order.

• Opposition to the 1832 Reform Act 🗳

  • Feared democratic reforms would erode aristocratic influence and lead to instability.

implementation of one nation conservatism

• Public Health Act (1875)

  • Improved sanitation and public health in urban areas.

• Artisans and Labourers Dwellings Improvement Act (1875)

  • Improved housing conditions for the working class.

• Factory Act

  • Reduced working hours for women and children.

  • Improved factory safety standards.

• Income Tax

  • Introduced as a permanent government revenue source.

  • Not progressive in nature.

• Second Reform Act

  • Expanded voting rights to reduce social unrest.

  • Increased Conservative Party support.

• acceptance of State Intervention

  • Post-1945 Labour government expanded welfare state and nationalized industries.

  • One-Nation conservatives supported this to maintain hierarchy and limit socialism's appeal.

• Support for Mixed Economy

  • Endorsed a combination of state-run industries and private enterprise.

  • Accepted comprehensive welfare as a pragmatic necessity.

thatchers new right policies

• Prioritized Defense and Law & Order

  • Maintained or increased funding for defense and police, despite cuts elsewhere.

• Anti-Permissiveness

  • Introduced Section 28, banning the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities and schools.

• Firm Anti-Soviet Stance

  • Took a strong, confrontational position against the Soviet Union during the Cold War, aligning closely with Ronald Reagan’s US policies

• Privatization

  • Sold off many state-owned industries nationalized by Labour governments (e.g., British Telecom, British Gas, British Airways).

• Deregulation

  • Reduced government regulations, notably with the Big Bang financial reforms in London’s Financial District in the 1980s.

• Tax Cuts

  • Top income tax rate drastically cut from 83% to 40%.

• Right to Buy Scheme

  • Allowed council house tenants to purchase their homes, promoting property ownership as a path to individual responsibility and freedom.

pragmatism and traditional conservatism

• Deep-rooted preference for existing institutions and proven practices over abstract ideology.

• Society viewed as a complex, organic whole.

• Change should be gradual and cautious, avoiding radical upheaval.

• Disrupting traditions seen as harmful and destabilizing.

• Pragmatism linked to maintaining social order and stability.

• Changes only made to preserve society’s fundamental structure.

one nation and pragmatism

• Recognizes need for state intervention to prevent unrest and maintain cohesion.

• Seeks pragmatic balance between traditional values and necessary reforms.

• Supported social reforms (Public Health Act, Artisans' and Laborers’ Dwelling Act, Factory Act).

• Adapts to industrialization, inequality, and socialist pressure by evolving conservatism.

• Uses nationalism to counter socialism’s class focus.

new right and pragmatism

• Moves away from pragmatism toward ideological commitment to negative freedom.

• Critiques One-Nation conservatism’s state intervention as socialist capitulation.

• Promotes laissez-faire capitalism and individual autonomy over regulation and welfare.

• Emphasizes traditional social values but inconsistently with earlier pragmatic conservatism.

• Driven more by ideology than cautious, experience-based pragmatism.

traditional cons and tradition

• Tradition is a continuous thread linking past, present, and future, fostering belonging and social continuity.

• He opposed the French Revolution due to its reckless rejection of tradition.

• Tradition is about preserving what is reliable and time-tested.

one nation and tradition

• Agree that tradition should be listened to.

• Recognize the need to change in order to conserve traditions.

• Support greater use of state power and intervention to address social inequalities.

• Believe in "changing to conserve," consistent with pragmatism.

new right and tradition

• Driven by the promotion of freedom, which can be seen as opposed to tradition.

• Support capitalism not because it's traditionally tried and tested, but because of their ideological beliefs.

• Neoconservatives support tradition through anti-permissiveness, advocating for a return to Traditional Values within Society.

• Emphasize the preservation of the traditional family unit as the Bedrock of societal stability, often with homophobic views.

• Examples include policies of Reagan and Thatcher.

tradition cons w paternalism and hierarchy

• Authoritarian approach: The state is viewed as the ultimate authority, knowing what’s best for its citizens.

• Ruling elite leadership: Decisions made top-down by those with knowledge and respect for tradition and pragmatism, without input from the general public.

• Citizens' role: Expected to obey the ruling class due to their superior wisdom and commitment to social order.

• State’s duty: Seen as a caretaker, responsible for protecting and providing for its citizens, similar to a parent-child relationship.

• Strong hierarchy: Essential for a stable and well-ordered society.

• Burke’s example: Believed hierarchy is natural and should be respected—kings, parliaments, magistrates, priests, and social abilities.

• Historical stance: Early conservatives like Robert Peel opposed reforms like the 1832 Reform Act, fearing disruption of social order and aristocratic influence.

one nation cons w hierarchy and paternalism

• Disraeli's quote: "The palace is not safe when the cottage is not happy."

  • The upper class need to keep the lower class happy to protect the hierarchy in society.

• Core belief: The state and upper classes have a responsibility to safeguard and care for the less privileged.

• Society as a unit: Society is seen as a single, united entity, bonded by patriotism.

• Moral duty: Rooted in “noblesse oblige” — the idea that privilege comes with the obligation to act generously and responsibly.

• Role of elites: Those in power act as benevolent guardians to protect and support the less fortunate.

Key Acts Reflecting Paternalism

• Public Health Act

• Factory Act

• Artisans' and Labourers' Dwellings Improvement Act
  (Supported as expressions of paternalistic duty to improve welfare)

Pragmatic Reasoning

• Paternalism also serves a practical purpose:

• Prevents growth of socialism by addressing inequality and reducing class unrest.

• Helps maintain social stability and hierarchy by improving conditions for the lower classes.

new right w hierarchy and paternalism

• Fundamental rejection: Opposes paternalism (state as protector/provider) and hierarchical social orders.

• Philosophy: Developed Objectivism, emphasizing individualism, autonomy, and meritocracy.

• State intervention: Views most government intervention as harmful, stifling individual freedom, economic growth, and innovation.

• Economic stance: Supports laissez-faire capitalism where free markets dictate economic outcomes without interference.

• View of society: Supports atomism — society is just a collection of independent individuals, not a unified whole.

• Famous quote: Margaret Thatcher’s “There is no society” reflects this atomistic view.

• Opposition to altruism: Rejects selfless concern for others as moral duty; sees altruism as fostering dependency and limiting freedom.

• Moral ideal: Rational self-interest and individualism over helping others or supporting elites.

• Social consequences: Accepts some level of inequality as a natural result of freedom and meritocracy.

• Rejects welfare state and redistribution: Believes these undermine personal responsibility and economic freedom.

traditional cons and property

• Strong support for capitalism and property ownership grounded in pragmatism and respect for tradition.

• Emphasis on maintaining social hierarchy as natural and necessary for order.

• Unlike One-Nation Conservatives, less emphasis on paternalistic economic policies (state welfare and intervention).

• Not as ideologically opposed to state intervention as the New Right; pragmatic about economic involvement.

• Edmund Burke was cautious of unregulated economic liberalism and feared the unchecked pursuit of individual wealth.

• Concerned that free markets could threaten social order and stability if left completely unfettered.

• Some early conservatives favored protectionism to shield national industries from foreign competition.

• Traditional conservatism developed before full industrialization and capitalism; thus, it was flexible and pragmatic.

• This pragmatism meant early conservatives might support policies similar to those of One-Nation Conservatism when necessary — embodying the principle of “change to conserve.”

one nation and property ownership

• One-Nation Conservatism supports capitalism based on pragmatism and respect for tradition.

• Emphasizes paternalism and state responsibility to protect welfare of all society members.

• Recognizes need for state intervention to address inequality and prevent social unrest caused by industrialization.

• Advocates reforms to help the less privileged, reflecting moral duty (paternalism).

• 19th-century policies included housing improvements and income tax to fund social welfare (not highly progressive).

• 20th-century leaders (e.g., Macmillan, Churchill) pragmatically accepted welfare measures to maintain social stability and hierarchy.

• Avoided radical nationalization but supported practical state intervention (e.g., Macmillan’s house-building programs).

• Believes in changing to conserve: adapting capitalism with intervention to preserve order and prevent socialism.

new right and property rights and capitalism

• Central to their ideology is libertarianism, emphasizing liberty, autonomy, and free choice, especially economically.

• Advocate minimal state intervention, laissez-faire capitalism, low taxation, limited public spending, and little regulation.

• The state’s role should be limited to protecting individuals from force, theft, fraud, and enforcing contracts—not wealth redistribution or economic management.

• Robert Nozick argued for a minimal state, seeing any further intervention as a violation of individual rights.

• Nozick’s libertarianism builds on Kant’s principle: individuals must be treated as ends in themselves, not means.

• Taxation is viewed as coercive, comparable to forced labor, threatening individual rights.

• Strong defense of property rights as fundamental to self-reliance, economic initiative, and societal stability.

• Thatcher’s government implemented neoliberal policies: privatization of nationalized industries, deregulation, large tax cuts, and the Right-to-Buy scheme promoting property ownership.

traditional cons and organic society

• Traditional conservatives strongly support the idea of organic society, viewing society as a living organism with interconnected, interdependent parts.

• They highly respect traditional institutions like the Church of England and the monarchy, seeing them as vital for continuity, stability, and social identity.

• They oppose dismantling these institutions for ideological reasons.

• Burke promoted localism and the concept of "little platoons" — small, local communities such as families, social groups, and clubs.

• These little platoons provide individuals with security, status, belonging, and nurture loyalty to society.

• Society is seen as a collection of these naturally developed, interrelated communities, each essential to the whole.

one nation cons and organic society

• One-Nation Conservatives also endorse the organic view of society, agreeing with traditional conservatism on gradual development respecting tradition and institutions.

• They emphasize the importance of a cohesive, patriotic national unit.

• They promote patriotism, national unity, shared purpose, and social harmony.

• This approach seeks to unite citizens beyond class divisions, directly opposing socialism’s focus on class conflict.

new right and organic society—- atomism

• The New Right rejects the concept of an organic society.

• Instead, they promote atomism: society is a collection of individuals pursuing their own interests.

• They emphasize individualism, personal freedom, and minimizing state intervention to protect individual liberty.

• Ayn Rand argued that the individual is the smallest minority on earth and must be prioritized.

• New Right thinkers reject the idea that society or the state is more important than individuals.

• Margaret Thatcher famously said, "There is no such thing as society. There are individual men and women, and there are families."

• Their political beliefs are centered on the individual as the fundamental unit of society

human imperfection - traditional cons

• Human imperfection is a key idea in traditional conservatism, influenced by Hobbes and Burke.

• Hobbes viewed humans pessimistically as self-interested and prone to conflict without a strong authority.

• Burke, influenced by original sin, believed humans are fallible but can be guided by tradition and institutions.

• Burke emphasized “little platoons” (families, local communities) as essential for social stability.

• Traditional conservatives believe human imperfection requires a stable, hierarchical social order.

• They value tradition and cautious governance to mitigate human flaws.

• Oakeshott described human behavior as “noisy, foolish, and flawed,” supporting a pragmatic political approach.

• Conservatives prefer gradual change and resist radical social reforms due to human limitations.

one nation and human imperfection

• Views humans as fallible and imperfect intellectually and psychologically.

• Believes humans can be benign and benevolent when framed by the right institutions.

• Recognizes that individuals are driven by a mix of self-interest, emotions, and limited rationality.

• Justifies paternalism in governance, where the state acts protectively, knowing better and looking after everyone in society.

• Recognizes the need for practical support in the economy.

new right and human nature

• Rejects the idea of human imperfection; views humans as rational and self-interested.

• Sees rational self-interest as positive for self-governance and societal benefit.

• Rooted in classical liberal tradition: individuals pursuing their own goals ultimately help society.

• Opposes paternalism; state should not interfere with individual freedom or market efficiency.

• Supports a minimal state role: protect rights, enforce contracts, ensure security only.

• Ayn Rand: Promoted Objectivism; self-interest is a moral imperative; opposed altruism and paternalism.

• Robert Nozick: Advocated self-ownership; individuals have sovereignty over their bodies and resources; opposed taxation as coercion violating rights

traditional view on state and security

• Drawing from Thomas Hobbes (whose Leviathan symbolizes the state), conservatives believe that without a strong state, human self-interest leads to chaos, disorder, and civil war. A strong state is necessary to provide order and security.

• Once established, the state's authority shouldn't be questioned.

one nation on security

• Supports the state providing order and security, influenced by Hobbes.

• Sees the state's role as providing law and order to prevent descent into chaos.

• Emphasizes law enforcement, a strong judicial system, and a focus on defense.

• Example: Robert Peel's establishment of the Metropolitan Police Service in the 19th century, aimed at maintaining social stability through shared understanding and traditions.

new right on security

• Supports the state providing order and security, even while advocating for rolling back the state in economic affairs.

• Believes the market needs a secure environment, and the state must provide order and security.

• The state's role in protection is essential.

• Ayn Rand: Argued the only proper purpose of the state is to protect man's rights, i.e., protect him from physical violence.

• Neoconservatives: Advocate for a strong state in defense and policing, emphasizing robust national defense capabilities and effective law enforcement for national sovereignty and public safety.

conservatives agree on

• support for capitalism and property rights, accepting some economic inequality.

• Belief in the necessity of the state for order and security, preventing societal conflict stemming from human imperfection.

• Acceptance of some degree of inequality in society.

• Recognition that order, security, and property rights are crucial for societal stability.

conservatives disagree on

State Intervention in the Economy

• Libertarianism (New Right) favors minimal state intervention, prioritizing individual economic freedom.

• One Nation conservatism supports a paternalistic state role to ensure welfare and social stability.

• New Right’s capitalism is ideologically driven by freedom; One Nation’s support is pragmatic and tradition-based.

🏘 Society: Organic vs. Individualistic

• One Nation conservatives believe in an organic, hierarchical society with interdependent parts.

• Traditional conservatives (Burke, Plato) emphasize localism and “little platoons” (community units).

• One Nation conservatives support paternalism and hierarchy; New Right champions individual liberty.

• One Nation conservatism is motivated by pragmatism and tradition; New Right by individual freedom.

👤 Human Nature: Pessimism vs. Optimism

• Traditional One Nation conservatives believe humans are imperfect and need guidance via tradition and community.

• The New Right rejects human imperfection, viewing individuals as rational and self-reliant.

• One Nation conservatives support paternalism to guide behavior; New Right opposes intervention, seeing it as creating dependency

disraeli

• Benjamin Disraeli: Conservative Prime Minister in the mid-to-late 19th century, key figure in shaping One-Nation Conservatism.

• One-Nation Conservatism:

  • An adaptation of traditional conservatism to address the social changes brought by industrialization and inequality.

  • Focused on gradual reform rather than radical change.

• Paternalism and Noblesse Oblige:

  • Disraeli promoted the idea that the state and upper classes have a moral duty to protect and care for the less privileged.

  • This stems from noblesse oblige — the obligation of those with privilege to act generously and responsibly toward those below them.

  • The state should act as a benevolent guardian for society’s vulnerable.

• Social Reforms: His government enacted reforms reflecting this paternalistic responsibility to improve welfare.

• One Nation Aim:

  • To prevent socialist revolution and social unrest by addressing inequality and poverty.

  • To promote national unity and a shared sense of identity across classes.

  • To bridge class divisions and maintain social stability and tradition.