ideologies key terms

hierarchy

Society is naturally structured in fixed tiers, not based on individual talent.

authority

Power comes from above; those at the top are best placed to make decisions for all.

change to conserve

Adapt society gradually to avoid rebellion or revolution.

atomism

Society is made up of self-interested, self-reliant individuals (egoistical individualism).

noblesse oblige

The duty of the wealthy to care for the less fortunate.

anti-permissiveness

Opposition to the idea that individuals should define their own morality; belief in objective right and wrong.

radical

Supports drastic political, social, and economic change (contrasts with conservative caution).

human imperfection

Humans are flawed—psychologically, morally, and intellectually—so cannot always act rationally.

laissez-faire

Minimal state intervention in the economy.

empiricism

Knowledge should come from practical experience, not abstract theory.

foundational equality

Natural, inalienable rights all humans are born with.

formal equality

Equal legal and political rights for all.

equality of opportunity

Everyone should have the same chances to succeed.

social contract

State exists by people’s consent, protecting their rights.

meritocracy

Success based on ability and hard work.

mechanistic theory

The state is a human creation, designed to serve society.

tolerance

The state is a human creation, designed to serve society.

limited government

Power constrained by checks and balances to prevent corruption.

egoistical individualism

Freedom tied to self-interest and self-reliance (atomism).

developmental individualism

Freedom linked to human flourishing and fulfilment.

negative freedom

Absence of external interference.

positive freedom

Personal fulfilment and potential realised.

laissez-faire capitalism

Market-driven economy, private ownership, profit-focused.

keynesianism

State intervention to manage the economy and ensure stability.

harm principle

Freedom is limited only by the duty not to harm others.

minimal state

State kept small to protect liberty.

enabling state

Larger state role in empowering individuals to achieve potential.

fraternity

Human bonds of comradeship and solidarity.

co-operation

Working collectively for shared benefit.

capitalism

Market system based on private ownership and profit.

common ownership

Collective ownership of production so all benefit.

communism

Classless society with communal ownership of wealth.

evolutionary socialism

Gradual, parliamentary route to reform and transformation.

marxism

Revolutionary theory predicting capitalism’s downfall and communism’s rise.

revisionism

Moderated socialism that accepts reformed capitalism.

social justice

Fair distribution of wealth, limiting inequality.

class consciousness

Awareness of class identity through collective struggle.

historical materialism

Economy shapes all aspects of society (superstructure).

dialectic

Progress through conflict, especially class struggle driving change.

keynesian economics

State intervention to stabilise markets and secure jobs.