Michael Oakeshott, a 20th-century British political theorist and philosopher, had a unique perspective on conservatism. He did not necessarily define conservatism through a fixed set of policies, ideologies, or agendas. Instead, he focused on the approach or attitude towards the political process, governance, and society.
What is Being Conservative According to Oakeshott?
Oakeshott's conception of conservatism focuses more on a temperamental disposition towards political activities than it does on a codified belief system. He proposes that being conservative is about how one engages with change, governance, and the collective social order. For Oakeshott, conservatism is characterized by a predilection for the familiar, the proven, and the established over the new, the experimental, and the revolutionary.
Skepticism Towards Change
One of the essential qualities of Oakeshott's conservative approach is skepticism towards radical change and an appreciation for tradition. Rather than rushing to adopt new laws, policies, or societal structures, a conservative stance suggests caution, deliberation, and a deep understanding of the implications. The conservative approach values the wisdom that has been accrued through history and sees radical change as potentially damaging to the social fabric.
A Pragmatic Approach
Oakeshott's conservatism is not resistant to change per se but insists on a more pragmatic, less ideological way of implementing it. The conservative view under this definition is practical, aiming for incremental adjustments that are rooted in the existing order. The objective is not to maintain the status quo arbitrarily, but to respect it as a foundation upon which to build.
Stability Over Ideological Purity
For Oakeshott, the conservative approach prioritizes stability and social cohesion over ideological purity. It refrains from overhauling societal structures based on abstract principles or theories. Instead, it places a high value on empirical evidence, practicality, and the continuity of existing social practices. This translates into a governance model that is more about stewardship than transformation.
Context and Nuances
It’s important to note that while Oakeshott’s definition offers an intellectual framework for understanding conservatism, it is not universally accepted. Some critics argue that it may be too abstract or theoretical to be applied effectively in the political arena. However, Oakeshott's work has been significant in shaping the academic discourse on conservatism, particularly in political philosophy.
In summary, Michael Oakeshott defines being conservative not as adhering to a specific set of beliefs or policies but as embodying a particular approach to politics. This approach is marked by skepticism towards rapid change, a pragmatic method of governance, and a focus on stability and tradition over ideological ambitions. His viewpoint enriches our understanding of conservatism as not just a political stance but also a philosophical disposition toward the organization of society.
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