Conservatism key concepts

Hierarchy

the conservative belief that society is naturally organised in fixed tiers and not based on individual ability.

Authority

This is the idea that people in higher positions in society are best able to make decisions in the interests of the whole society.

Change to conserve

society should adapt to changing circumstances rather than reject change outright and risk rebellion/revolution.

Atomism

society is made up of self-interested and self-sufficient individuals. 

Noblesse oblige

The duty of the wealthy and privileged to look after those less fortunate.

Anti-permissiveness

rejection of permissiveness which is the belief that people should make their own moral choices (no objective right/wrong).

Radical

belief whose ideas favour drastic political, economic and social change.

Human imperfection

traditional conservative belief that humans are flawed in a number of ways which makes them incapable of making good decisions themselves. 

Laissez-faire

A preference towards minimal government intervention in business and the state.

Empiricism

The idea that knowledge comes from real experience and not from abstract theories.

Pragmatism

Flexible approach to society with decisions made on the basis of what works.

Tradition

Accumulated wisdom of past societies and a connection between the generations.

Organic society/state

Society/state is more important than any individual parts/

Paternalism

Benign power exerted from above by the state, that governs in the interests of the people.

Libertarianism

Upholds liberty, seeking to maximise autonomy and free choice mainly in the economy.