Active learning ideas
Conservatism is a political ideology rooted in the desire to preserve what is best in society. This topic introduces students to core concepts like human imperfection, organic society, tradition, and pragmatism. Students explore the tensions between different strands of conservatism, such as the paternalistic 'One Nation' tradition and the more individualistic, free-market 'New Right' (Thatcherism).
Activity 01
Assign each group a key conservative thinker (e.g., Burke, Rand, Nozick). They must create a 'social media profile' for that thinker, outlining their views on human nature, the state, and society.
Why do conservatives value tradition and pragmatism?
Activity 02
Students debate a modern issue (e.g., reforming the monarchy) from a conservative perspective. One side argues for the importance of tradition and organic change, while the other argues for pragmatic reform.
What are the key differences between one-nation and New Right conservatism?
Activity 03
Students discuss the conservative view that humans are morally, intellectually, and psychologically flawed. They pair up to find examples of how this belief influences conservative policies on law and order or the economy.
How do conservative thinkers view human nature?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Conservatives are against all change.
Conservatives believe in 'changing to conserve.' They support gradual, organic change rather than radical revolution. Use a 'case study' of a successful conservative reform to show how they manage change while preserving stability.
The New Right and One Nation Conservatism are the same.
They have very different views on the state and the economy. A Venn diagram activity can help students identify where they overlap (e.g., on law and order) and where they differ (e.g., on welfare and state intervention).
Methods used in this brief
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