History: Conservatism

Welcome to this course which will define the history of Conservatism in the United Kingdom.

Introduction:  Conservatism is found within Section B: Core Political Ideas of Components Group 1. This course is examined as part of a 2 hour exam that includes Section A: Political Participation. Component Group 1 comprises 33.3% of the overall A-level grade. This course on Conservatism will explore the following:  The core ideas and principles associated with Conservatism Key Conservative thinkers in history The different types of Conservatism that exist

Conservatives tend to believe in the power of the individual. Regulatory controls, they believe, should not impinge on individual freedoms, and this applies more so in the economic sphere. Social order and security should also be maintained.

Conservatism was born in a time of great change across Europe and the larger world. The enlightenment had opened many new doors of possibility. Conservatives were already wealthy individuals who were interested in maintaining the status quo.

This Mind Map should help make things clearer. Here we can see the principle values which are the bedrock of conservatism. There is recognition of human nature & inequality, and belief in hierarchy and pragmatism.

There are a number of names that we associate with the forefront of conservative thought. Among them are Thomas Hobbes, Edmund Burke, Michael Oakeshott and Ayn Rand.

Over the years, conservatism has branched out into several related, but independent movements. These include authoritarian conservatism, traditional conservatism, one nation conservatism and the liberal new right.

Time to review. Here are seventeen flashcards which cover the key terms, ideas and individuals we have encountered on thos conservatism course. This is a great way to remember difficult terminology.

Quiz time. Here are twelve questions based on what we have just covered. This will test your knowledge of the history of conservatism. Aim for 80% or higher. Best of luck with it.