Classical Conservatism Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is Classical Conservatism?

Emphasis on equality

Complete government control

Maintaining existing or traditional order (correct)

Support for radical change

What does Classical Conservatism consist of?

A mixed view of human nature, society as an organic whole, hierarchy, and the importance of stability, law, and traditions.

Who played a key role in the development of Classical Conservatism?

Edmund Burke

What does Classical Conservative ideology emphasize?

The maintenance of an ordered community and common values. Signup and view all the answers

The belief that society equals more than the sum of its parts is characteristic of Classical Conservatism.

True Signup and view all the answers

A Classical Conservative would be more comfortable with a trend toward concentration of political power than a _______.

Classical Liberal. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Classical Conservatism begin?

As a reaction against the liberal ideas taking hold of Europe during the French Revolution. Signup and view all the answers

Who observed the early stages of the French Revolution and predicted violence?

Edmund Burke Signup and view all the answers

Why did Burke and other conservatives attack Liberalism?

They argued that liberalism destroyed tradition. Signup and view all the answers

What four concepts does Classical Conservatism emphasize?

Stability, Concreteness, Human Fallibility, and Unique Circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

How does Classical Conservatism view stability?

Change must be made gradually to preserve stability. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Classical Conservative view on concreteness?

Liberalism is too abstract and does not focus on the concrete way people live. Signup and view all the answers

What does Classical Conservatism say about human fallibility?

It overestimates human beings and ignores defects like ignorance and prejudice. Signup and view all the answers

What is the stance of Classical Conservatism on unique circumstances?

There is no universal answer to societal problems; each country's circumstances are unique. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Classical Conservatism Overview

Classical Conservatism emphasizes maintaining traditional social orders and political structures.
Prioritizes respect for institutions, skepticism towards government intervention, and a cautious approach to change.

Key Concepts of Classical Conservatism

Human nature is seen as mixed; self-interest can lead to harm.
Society is viewed as an organic entity, with hierarchy rather than equality being central.
Elites are granted ruling rights but are obligated to ensure societal welfare ("noblesse oblige").
Stability, law, order, customs, and traditions are deemed essential for a functioning society.
Advocates for limited citizenship rights and a mixed economic approach.

Intellectual Foundations

Edmund Burke is considered a pivotal figure in Classical Conservatism, reflecting on moral natural law and Western traditions.
Burke's political reasoning relies on "ordered liberty," rooted in established institutions like the church and family.
Criticized the French Revolution for its radicalism, warning against the dangers of abstract rights in his work "Reflections on the Revolution in France."

Ideological Emphasis

Promotes the idea that society transcends individual interests, representing a collective whole.
Classical Conservatives are generally more accepting of centralized political power compared to Classical Liberals.

Historical Context

Emerged as a response to liberal ideologies during the French Revolution of the late 18th century.
Burke expressed alarm at the early revolution stages, foreseeing ensuing violence and chaos.

Critique of Liberalism

Conservatives contend that liberalism undermines traditions and institutions in favor of new ideas and capitalism.
Fears of societal chaos due to rapid change align with conservative beliefs in gradual reform.

Core Principles of Classical Conservatism

Stability: Change should be gradual, as instability can lead to societal breakdown.
Concreteness: Critique of liberalism’s abstract ideals of freedom and equality without considering real-life contexts.
Human Fallibility: Acknowledges human ignorance and irrationality, arguing that liberalism overlooks these traits.
Unique Circumstances: Beliefs that solutions to societal issues must consider specific national circumstances rather than universal truths.

Burke's Views on Democracy

Specific insights on democracy were offered by Burke but not detailed; he maintained a cautious and nuanced stance on democratic principles while respecting established hierarchies.

Description

Explore the key concepts of Classical Conservatism through these informative flashcards. Each card presents a fundamental term and its definition, allowing for a deeper understanding of this political philosophy. Perfect for students looking to grasp the principles of maintaining traditional order.