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Politics
30 Nov 2025
788
5 pages
Eranga Bodhinayaka @erangabodhinayaka_satj
Edmund Burke and Thomas Hobbes: Key Conservative Thinkers in Political Philosophy
This document explores the political philosophies of... Show more
Edmund Burke, another prominent figure in traditional conservatism, emphasized the importance of tradition, gradual change, and organic society in his political philosophy.
Highlight Burke supported the American Revolution but criticized the French Revolution, illustrating his nuanced approach to political change.
Key Works
Human Nature Burke was skeptical of human nature but less pessimistic than Hobbes. He believed humans were capable of kindness and altruism if their actions were rooted in history, tradition, and Christian teachings.
Quote "Society is but a contract between the dead, the living and those yet to be born."
Society and State Burke viewed society as organic and multi-faceted, composed of "little platoons" in a natural aristocratic hierarchy. He believed the state should be driven by a hereditary elite acting with a sense of public service.
Vocabulary Little Platoons - Burke's term for local communities that help prevent selfish individualism.
Economy Burke supported free markets and laissez-faire economics, emphasizing the importance of property rights and the state's role in protecting them.
Example Burke's support for free trade and property rights aligns with modern conservative economic principles.
Michael Oakeshott, a 20th-century traditional conservative thinker, emphasized skepticism towards rationalism in politics and favored practical knowledge over abstract theories.
Key Works
Human Nature Oakeshott held a modest view of human nature, believing that humanity is at its best when focused on the routines of everyday life rather than grand political schemes.
Quote "To prefer the familiar to the unknown, to prefer the tried to the untried, the actual to the possible and the convenient to the perfect."
Political Philosophy Oakeshott was skeptical of rationalism in politics, arguing that political activity is more akin to navigating "a boundless and bottomless sea" than following a predetermined course.
Highlight Oakeshott's emphasis on practical knowledge and skepticism towards grand political theories distinguishes him from earlier conservative thinkers.
This page likely compares and contrasts the ideas of Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott, highlighting their contributions to traditional conservatism and their influence on modern conservative thought.
Example While Hobbes advocated for a strong authoritarian state, Burke emphasized the importance of tradition and organic social structures, and Oakeshott focused on skepticism towards rationalism in politics.
Key points of comparison may include
Highlight Understanding these key thinkers is crucial for students studying conservatism in A-level Politics, as they provide the foundation for many modern conservative ideas.
This final page likely discusses the ongoing relevance of Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott to contemporary political thought and conservative ideology.
Example Burke's emphasis on gradual, organic change continues to influence modern conservative approaches to policy-making and social reform.
Key points may include
Highlight For students of A-level Politics, understanding these thinkers' ideas is essential for analyzing current conservative policies and ideologies.
The page may also touch on how these thinkers' ideas compare to other political philosophies, such as liberalism or socialism, providing a broader context for understanding conservative thought.
Vocabulary Conservatism - A political philosophy emphasizing traditional institutions, stability, and gradual change.
Thomas Hobbes, a key figure in traditional conservatism, developed a pessimistic view of human nature and society, arguing for the necessity of a strong state to maintain order.
Highlight Hobbes lived through the tumultuous period of the English Civil War, which greatly influenced his political philosophy.
Key Works
Human Nature Hobbes held a cynical view of human nature, believing humans to be selfish, calculating, and competitive. He argued that without formal authority, relations between humans would be marked by "envy, hatred, and war."
Quote "A perpetual and restless desire for power after power that ceaseth only in death."
Society and State Hobbes contended that society could only exist with stability, authority, and order, requiring obedience and loyalty to a sovereign. He proposed a social contract theory where people come together to create a sovereign with absolute power to ensure order and stability.
Definition Social Contract - An agreement among individuals to form a government and abide by its rules in exchange for protection and order.
Economy Hobbes believed that constructive and enduring economic activity was impossible without a state guaranteeing order and security.
Example Hobbes' famous description of life in the state of nature as "nasty, brutish, and short" underscores his belief in the necessity of a strong state.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key ideologies and policies of the Conservative Party, including One Nation conservatism, New Right principles, and their impact on UK politics. This summary covers the party's approach to economic management, law and order, welfare, and foreign affairs, providing essential insights for A-level Politics students.
PoliticsExplore the complexities of the US political landscape, focusing on the two-party system, third-party dynamics, and the influence of party factions. This summary covers key concepts such as party realignment, dealignment, and the impact of independent candidates on elections. Ideal for students studying American politics and political party structures.
PoliticsExplore the key concepts of conservatism, including Traditional, One-Nation, and New Right ideologies. This summary covers human nature, the role of the state, societal structures, and economic perspectives, providing a comprehensive overview for A-level Politics students.
PoliticsExplore the origins and significance of tradition in conservatism, focusing on key thinkers like Edmund Burke and G.K. Chesterton. This summary covers the evolution of conservative ideology, its response to change, and the impact of neoliberalism. Ideal for A Level Politics students preparing for Paper 1 on Core Ideologies.
HistoryExplore the fundamental disagreements among key conservative thinkers regarding human nature, the role of the state, and economic principles. This summary delves into the contrasting views of Hobbes, Burke, Oakeshott, Rand, and Nozick, highlighting their perspectives on social contracts, free markets, and individualism. Ideal for A Level Politics students seeking to understand the complexities of conservative ideology.
PoliticsExplore the key concepts of liberalism, including the role of the state, individual freedoms, and economic theories. This summary covers classical and modern liberal perspectives, the social contract, and the necessity of state intervention for equality of opportunity. Ideal for students studying political ideologies and their implications on society and the economy.
PoliticsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Eranga Bodhinayaka
@erangabodhinayaka_satj
Edmund Burke and Thomas Hobbes: Key Conservative Thinkers in Political Philosophy
This document explores the political philosophies of three influential traditional conservative key thinkers: Thomas Hobbes, Edmund Burke, and Michael Oakeshott. It examines their views on human nature, society,... Show more
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Edmund Burke, another prominent figure in traditional conservatism, emphasized the importance of tradition, gradual change, and organic society in his political philosophy.
Highlight: Burke supported the American Revolution but criticized the French Revolution, illustrating his nuanced approach to political change.
Key Works:
Human Nature: Burke was skeptical of human nature but less pessimistic than Hobbes. He believed humans were capable of kindness and altruism if their actions were rooted in history, tradition, and Christian teachings.
Quote: "Society is but a contract between the dead, the living and those yet to be born."
Society and State: Burke viewed society as organic and multi-faceted, composed of "little platoons" in a natural aristocratic hierarchy. He believed the state should be driven by a hereditary elite acting with a sense of public service.
Vocabulary: Little Platoons - Burke's term for local communities that help prevent selfish individualism.
Economy: Burke supported free markets and laissez-faire economics, emphasizing the importance of property rights and the state's role in protecting them.
Example: Burke's support for free trade and property rights aligns with modern conservative economic principles.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Michael Oakeshott, a 20th-century traditional conservative thinker, emphasized skepticism towards rationalism in politics and favored practical knowledge over abstract theories.
Key Works:
Human Nature: Oakeshott held a modest view of human nature, believing that humanity is at its best when focused on the routines of everyday life rather than grand political schemes.
Quote: "To prefer the familiar to the unknown, to prefer the tried to the untried, the actual to the possible and the convenient to the perfect."
Political Philosophy: Oakeshott was skeptical of rationalism in politics, arguing that political activity is more akin to navigating "a boundless and bottomless sea" than following a predetermined course.
Highlight: Oakeshott's emphasis on practical knowledge and skepticism towards grand political theories distinguishes him from earlier conservative thinkers.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This page likely compares and contrasts the ideas of Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott, highlighting their contributions to traditional conservatism and their influence on modern conservative thought.
Example: While Hobbes advocated for a strong authoritarian state, Burke emphasized the importance of tradition and organic social structures, and Oakeshott focused on skepticism towards rationalism in politics.
Key points of comparison may include:
Highlight: Understanding these key thinkers is crucial for students studying conservatism in A-level Politics, as they provide the foundation for many modern conservative ideas.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This final page likely discusses the ongoing relevance of Hobbes, Burke, and Oakeshott to contemporary political thought and conservative ideology.
Example: Burke's emphasis on gradual, organic change continues to influence modern conservative approaches to policy-making and social reform.
Key points may include:
Highlight: For students of A-level Politics, understanding these thinkers' ideas is essential for analyzing current conservative policies and ideologies.
The page may also touch on how these thinkers' ideas compare to other political philosophies, such as liberalism or socialism, providing a broader context for understanding conservative thought.
Vocabulary: Conservatism - A political philosophy emphasizing traditional institutions, stability, and gradual change.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Thomas Hobbes, a key figure in traditional conservatism, developed a pessimistic view of human nature and society, arguing for the necessity of a strong state to maintain order.
Highlight: Hobbes lived through the tumultuous period of the English Civil War, which greatly influenced his political philosophy.
Key Works:
Human Nature: Hobbes held a cynical view of human nature, believing humans to be selfish, calculating, and competitive. He argued that without formal authority, relations between humans would be marked by "envy, hatred, and war."
Quote: "A perpetual and restless desire for power after power that ceaseth only in death."
Society and State: Hobbes contended that society could only exist with stability, authority, and order, requiring obedience and loyalty to a sovereign. He proposed a social contract theory where people come together to create a sovereign with absolute power to ensure order and stability.
Definition: Social Contract - An agreement among individuals to form a government and abide by its rules in exchange for protection and order.
Economy: Hobbes believed that constructive and enduring economic activity was impossible without a state guaranteeing order and security.
Example: Hobbes' famous description of life in the state of nature as "nasty, brutish, and short" underscores his belief in the necessity of a strong state.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
51
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key ideologies and policies of the Conservative Party, including One Nation conservatism, New Right principles, and their impact on UK politics. This summary covers the party's approach to economic management, law and order, welfare, and foreign affairs, providing essential insights for A-level Politics students.
PoliticsExplore the complexities of the US political landscape, focusing on the two-party system, third-party dynamics, and the influence of party factions. This summary covers key concepts such as party realignment, dealignment, and the impact of independent candidates on elections. Ideal for students studying American politics and political party structures.
PoliticsExplore the key concepts of conservatism, including Traditional, One-Nation, and New Right ideologies. This summary covers human nature, the role of the state, societal structures, and economic perspectives, providing a comprehensive overview for A-level Politics students.
PoliticsExplore the origins and significance of tradition in conservatism, focusing on key thinkers like Edmund Burke and G.K. Chesterton. This summary covers the evolution of conservative ideology, its response to change, and the impact of neoliberalism. Ideal for A Level Politics students preparing for Paper 1 on Core Ideologies.
HistoryExplore the fundamental disagreements among key conservative thinkers regarding human nature, the role of the state, and economic principles. This summary delves into the contrasting views of Hobbes, Burke, Oakeshott, Rand, and Nozick, highlighting their perspectives on social contracts, free markets, and individualism. Ideal for A Level Politics students seeking to understand the complexities of conservative ideology.
PoliticsExplore the key concepts of liberalism, including the role of the state, individual freedoms, and economic theories. This summary covers classical and modern liberal perspectives, the social contract, and the necessity of state intervention for equality of opportunity. Ideal for students studying political ideologies and their implications on society and the economy.
PoliticsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
