Conservatism and thinkers views

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What was Thomas Hobbes' view of human nature?

Humans are naturally selfish, competitive, and prone to conflict, requiring a strong authority to maintain order. (correct)

Humans are inherently good and cooperative.

Humans are neutral and shaped by society.

Humans are primarily influenced by their environment and culture.

What is Hobbes' 'state of nature'?

A condition where individuals live in harmony.

A situation where laws govern society.

A hypothetical state where life without authority would be 'nasty, brutish, and short.' (correct)

A period marked by widespread cooperation and peace.

What did Hobbes argue was the purpose of the state?

To impose order and prevent chaos through a social contract where individuals surrender some freedom for security. (correct)

To ensure absolute freedom for all individuals.

To allow individuals to act solely on their instincts.

To promote a communal ownership of resources.

What is Edmund Burke's key contribution to conservatism?

Burke emphasized tradition, gradual change, and respect for established institutions as vital for social stability. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Edmund Burke often considered the father of modern conservatism?

Due to his emphasis on the importance of tradition and gradual change for maintaining social order. Signup and view all the answers

How did Burke view society?

As an organic entity that evolves over time, binding generations through tradition and shared values. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Burke reject the French Revolution?

He opposed its radical rejection of tradition and the violent pursuit of abstract principles like equality. Signup and view all the answers

What is Michael Oakeshott’s main idea about politics?

Oakeshott believed politics should focus on pragmatic governance, preferring familiarity and tradition over idealistic schemes. Signup and view all the answers

What is Ayn Rand’s central belief in her philosophy of objectivism?

Rand emphasized rational self-interest, individual freedom, and a limited state to protect property rights and personal liberty. Signup and view all the answers

What was Rand's view on welfare and state intervention?

She opposed welfare and state intervention, arguing they undermine individual responsibility and freedom. Signup and view all the answers

What is Robert Nozick’s view on the role of the state?

A minimal state focused solely on protecting individual rights, such as property and personal safety. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Nozick reject redistributive taxation?

He believed it violates individual liberty by forcing individuals to give up earnings that they are entitled to. Signup and view all the answers

How does Burke's concept of change differ from radical ideologies?

Burke supported gradual, evolutionary change rather than revolutionary upheaval. Signup and view all the answers

What is Hobbes' idea of the 'Leviathan'?

A powerful state or sovereign authority is necessary to prevent anarchy and ensure peace. Signup and view all the answers

What did Rand believe about capitalism?

capitalism as the only moral system because it respects individual freedom and rewards effort and talent. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Nozick associated with libertarian conservatism?

He stressed the importance of personal liberty, a free market, and minimal state involvement in people's lives. Signup and view all the answers

How does Burke’s idea of ‘little platoons’ reflect conservatism?

It supports the concept of small, local communities and institutions in maintaining social stability and nurturing values. Signup and view all the answers

What is the common thread in the views of Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott?

A belief in the importance of authority, tradition, and pragmatism in maintaining societal order. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conservative view of human nature?

Human nature is flawed, imperfect, and driven by self-interest, requiring guidance and order. Signup and view all the answers

What is pragmatism in conservatism?

Practical decision-making based on tradition and experience rather than abstract ideology. Signup and view all the answers

Why do conservatives value tradition?

Provides stability, continuity, and a sense of identity by passing down tried-and-tested practices. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conservative belief in hierarchy?

A natural hierarchy and unequal distribution of power are essential for social stability and order. Signup and view all the answers

What do conservatives mean by organic society?

Society is like a living organism, where all parts are interconnected and have a role Signup and view all the answers

Why do conservatives support authority?

To maintain social order and stability by providing clear rules and discipline. Signup and view all the answers

What is paternalism in conservatism?

The belief that the ruling class has a duty to care for and guide the less fortunate, much like a parent to a child. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conservative stance on private property?

It is essential for stability, responsibility, individual freedom and economic prosperity. Signup and view all the answers

Match the Conservatism thinkers to a summary of their views.

Thomas Hobbes = Order and authority to prevent chaos. Edmund Burke = Tradition, organic society, and cautious reform. Michael Oakeshott = Pragmatism and skepticism of ideology. Ayn Rand = Individualism and free-market capitalism. Signup and view all the answers

Match the Conservatism thinkers to a summary of their views.

<h1>Robert Nozick = Libertarianism and minimal state intervention. Benjamin Disraeli = Addressing social inequality Michael Oakeshott = Pragmatism and skepticism of ideology.</h1> Signup and view all the answers