Michael Oakeshott
Michael Oakeshott was an influential 20th century British philosopher who made significant contributions to conservative political thought. His views on conservatism can be summarized as follows:
Key Aspects of Oakeshott's Conservatism
Conservative Disposition
Oakeshott viewed conservatism not as a rigid ideology, but as a disposition or temperament. He famously described the conservative disposition as preferring "the familiar to the unknown, the tried to the untried, fact to mystery, the actual to the possible, the limited to the unbounded". This disposition favors pragmatism and skepticism toward radical change.
Critique of Rationalism
A central theme in Oakeshott's work was his criticism of "rationalism" in politics. He argued against the belief that politics and society could be rationally planned or engineered based on abstract principles. Instead, he emphasized the importance of practical knowledge, tradition, and experience in political decision-making.
Limited Role of Government
Oakeshott believed that governing should be a "specific and limited activity". He was skeptical of expansive government programs and social engineering. The state's role should be more like an umpire than an active player in society.
Pragmatism over Ideology
He advocated for a pragmatic, non-ideological approach to politics. Oakeshott saw politics as a "conversation, not an argument" and rejected the idea of absolute truths in political life.
Influence on Conservative Thought
Traditionalist Conservatism
Oakeshott's ideas have been influential in shaping traditionalist conservative thought. His emphasis on the value of inherited traditions and skepticism toward rapid social change resonated with many conservatives.
New Right
Some of Oakeshott's ideas, particularly his critique of expansive government, influenced thinkers associated with the New Right movement
.Academic Conservatism
Oakeshott's sophisticated philosophical approach to conservatism has been particularly influential in academic circles. He provided intellectual depth to conservative ideas beyond mere policy positions.
Limited Direct Influence in America
Despite his importance in conservative philosophy, Oakeshott's direct influence on American conservatism has been relatively limited. His skeptical, non-ideological approach did not align well with the more assertive and ideological strain of American conservatism that emerged in the latter half of the 20th century.
In essence, Oakeshott offered a nuanced, philosophically grounded version of conservatism that emphasized pragmatism, skepticism toward rationalist planning, and a limited role for government. While his ideas have been influential in shaping conservative thought, particularly in academic circles, they have often stood in contrast to more ideological and activist forms of conservatism.