2.-Political-ideology

Political Ideologies

Introduction

• Political ideologies shape political systems and beliefs.

Origin of Political Ideology

• Coined by Antoine Destutt de Tracy during the French Revolution.

• Literal meaning: "science of ideas" derived from "idea-logy."

• Key distinctions:

  • Beliefs: People's assessment of reality and truths.

  • Values: Ideas about right and wrong.

  • Political Ideologies: Commitments aimed at changing political systems.

Distinguished Ideologies from Ideas

Characteristics of Political Ideologies

• Comprehensiveness: Covers ideas about human existence, societal goals, and methods to achieve them.

• Pervasiveness: Influential ideas widespread over time, shaping political beliefs.

• Extensiveness: Ideas held by many, impacting national political affairs.

• Intensiveness: Strong commitment and influence on adherents' actions and beliefs.

Characteristics of Ideologies

• Often end with '-ism'.

• Provide explanations for societal issues and offer futuristic visions.

• Action-oriented, mobilizing large groups of people.

Features of Ideology

• Gives an account of the existing social order (world view).

• Proposes a vision for a desired future and a good society.

• Outlines how to transition from the current to the desired state.

Intellectual Components of an Ideology

• Values: Core principles and ethics.

• The Vision of the Ideal Polity: Conceptual design for optimal governance.

• Conception of Human Nature: Understanding human behavior.

• Strategy of Action: Steps to achieve ideological goals.

• Political Tactics: Methods used to implement strategies.

Ideologies Overview

1. Liberalism (The Left)

• Derived from "liber" meaning "free men".

• Advocates for social change and improvement through governmental action.

Values and Beliefs of Liberalism

• Individualism: Importance of the individual over groups.

• Freedom: Ability to think/action independently.

• Reason: Capacity to shape destinies.

• Justice: Fairness and impartiality.

• Toleration: Acceptance of differing views.

Types of Liberalism

• Classical Liberalism: Emphasis on individualism and negative freedom.

• Neoliberalism: Focus on state interactions valuing cooperation.

2. Conservatism (The Right)

• Derived from "conservation"; emphasizes preservation of tradition and moderate change.

3. Socialism

• Derived from "socialist" meaning to combine/share.

• Advocates for government ownership of production while retaining existing institutions.

• Quote by Erich Fromm highlights man's precedence over material conditions.

4. Social Democracy

• Reformist brand of socialism that balances market and state interests.

• Focuses on welfare improvements such as healthcare and pensions.

5. Communism

• Extreme left ideology advocating for communal ownership and scientifically managed economy.

• Based on Karl Marx's revolutionary teachings.

6. Fascism

• Derived from "fasces" symbolizing authority.

• Rejects democracy, constitutionalism, promotes state over individual rights.

• Characterized by militarism and violence.

7. Religious Fundamentalism

• Associated with inflexibility and dogmatism, rejecting politics-religion distinction.

• Themes include religion as politics and anti-modernism.

8. Feminism

• Derived from "femina" meaning female; seeks gender equality.

• Addresses patriarchy and male dominance in society.

9. Environmentalism

• Focused on protecting the environment from degradation through policies.

• Advocates for lifestyle changes to preserve natural environments.

Activities for Engagement

Activity #3: Ideologies for Living

• Compare characteristics and significance of various ideologies: Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Fascism.

Activity #4: Short Biography

• Choose a historical figure, discuss their leadership and how their political beliefs relate to Philippine politics.

Home Mission #2

• Conduct an interview with a local politician about their advocacy and ideology.