To what extent is conservatism united in their views of human nature?

Paragraph 1: Similarity in Views of Human Nature in Traditional Conservatism and One Nation Conservatism

  • Explanation: Both Traditional Conservatism and One Nation Conservatism emphasize human imperfection, recognizing that humans are inherently flawed and thus require societal structures and guidance. These schools of thought agree that a paternalistic approach, with a focus on social cohesion, is essential for maintaining order.

  • Key Thinker: Edmund Burke (Traditional Conservatism), Disraeli (One Nation Conservatism)

  • Quote: Edmund Burke - "A state without the means of some change is without the means of its conservation." This highlights Burke’s belief that a society must evolve cautiously to maintain stability, acknowledging human limitations.

Paragraph 2: Difference in Views of Human Nature between Traditional Conservatism and New Right Conservatism

  • Explanation: Traditional Conservatism views human nature as inherently flawed, requiring gradual change and paternalistic guidance. In contrast, New Right Conservatism introduces a more individualistic perspective, with a belief in rational self-interest (neoliberalism) and moral authority (neoconservatism), highlighting a tension within the conservative framework.

  • Key Thinker: Thomas Hobbes (Traditional Conservatism) vs. Ayn Rand (New Right Conservatism)

  • Quote: Ayn Rand - "The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me." This underscores the New Right's emphasis on individualism and self-determination, diverging from the traditional view that humans need external authority to guide them.

Paragraph 3: Contrast in Views of Human Nature between One Nation Conservatism and New Right Conservatism

  • Explanation: While One Nation Conservatism focuses on social unity, mutual responsibility, and paternalism, the New Right introduces a more fragmented approach, balancing neoliberal individualism with neoconservative moral authority, revealing differing views on human nature’s capacity for rationality versus the need for strict societal guidance.

  • Key Thinker: Disraeli (One Nation Conservatism) vs. Robert Nozick (New Right Conservatism)

  • Quote: Robert Nozick - "Taxation of earnings is on a par with forced labor." This reflects Nozick’s view of human nature as primarily self-interested and deserving of minimal government interference, contrasting with Disraeli’s belief in societal responsibility and paternalistic care.