5.2.2

One-Nation Conservatism

Test yourself

One-Nation Conservatism

One-nation conservatism emerged in the UK as a result of capitalism and the industrial revolution.

Illustrative background for One-nation conservatismIllustrative background for One-nation conservatism ?? "content

One-nation conservatism

  • One-nation conservatism is the idea of government in the interests of all.
  • The Conservative Party changed to make sure that they remained in power by appealing to working-class voters across the UK, rather than only appealing to and taking care of the interests of the landed, wealthy elite.
  • One-nation conservatism is centred around the ideas of noblesse oblige (privilege entails responsibility), change to conserve, and supporting the working classes.
Illustrative background for Noblesse obligeIllustrative background for Noblesse oblige ?? "content

Noblesse oblige

  • Noblesse oblige is a French term which is taken to mean the obligation the rich, well-off and high-status people in society have to help those less fortunate than themselves.
  • Noblesse oblige is closely associated with one nation conservatism and in the present day with ‘compassionate conservatism’.
  • It is the idea that people of these high social positions should use the power that they have from these positions to help others.
Illustrative background for Nobless oblige and conservativesIllustrative background for Nobless oblige and conservatives ?? "content

Nobless oblige and conservatives

  • Conservatives believe in hierarchy and natural inequalities - and so there will always be people of a higher status and people of a lower status.
  • People of a high status have an obligation to help others.
  • Noblesse oblige reinforces the idea that there should be a ruling elite.
Illustrative background for Examples of noblesse obligeIllustrative background for Examples of noblesse oblige ?? "content

Examples of noblesse oblige

  • David Cameron promised to scrap taxes for people earning the minimum wage in 2014.
    • This is an example of the privileged in society (leadership, members of parliament) using their power to help the poorest in society.

Jump to other topics

1Democracy & Participation

2Political Parties

3Electoral Systems

4Voting Behaviour & the Media

5Conservatism

6Liberalism

7Socialism

8The UK Constitution

9The UK Parliament

10The Prime Minister & the Executive

11Relationships Between Government Branches

12US Constitution & Federalism

13US Congress

14US Presidency

15US Supreme Court & Civil Rights

16US Democracy & Participation

17Comparing Democracies

18Feminism

19Nationalism

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson