One Nation vs New Right
This lesson examines the key division within conservatism between one-nation conservatism and the New Right (Thatcherism). Understanding this internal debate is essential for the Edexcel A-Level Politics specification.
One-Nation Conservatism
Origins and Core Beliefs
Articulated by Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881), who warned Britain was becoming "two nations" — rich and poor.
- Paternalism. The wealthy have a duty of care (noblesse oblige) towards the poor.
- Social cohesion. Excessive inequality threatens social stability. Support a moderate welfare state.
- Pragmatism. Support whatever policies maintain social stability, even significant state intervention.
- Managed capitalism. Accept a mixed economy — private enterprise combined with state intervention and Keynesian demand management.
- Moderation. Centre-right, balancing freedom with social responsibility.
Example: Post-war Conservative governments (1951-64) accepted the welfare state, NHS, and Keynesian economics.
The New Right
Origins
Emerged in the 1970s-80s as a reaction against the perceived failures of the post-war consensus — inflation, union militancy, and an overextended welfare state. Associated with Margaret Thatcher (PM 1979-1990).
Two Strands
1. Neoliberalism (Economic Liberalism)
- Free-market economics. Markets, not governments, should allocate resources.
- Privatisation. Sell state-owned industries to the private sector.
- Deregulation. Reduce government regulations on business.
- Low taxation. Cut income tax to encourage enterprise.
- Monetarism. Control the money supply to control inflation (Milton Friedman).
- Anti-welfare. Extensive welfare creates a "dependency culture".
Thatcher: "There is no such thing as society. There are individual men and women, and there are families."
2. Neoconservatism (Social Conservatism)
- Strong state. Maintain law and order, uphold traditional values, project national power.
- Traditional values. Support traditional family, patriotism, respect for authority.
- National security. Robust defence and foreign policy.
- Patriotism. Emphasis on national identity; scepticism of multiculturalism and supranational institutions.
The Tension Within the New Right
- Neoliberalism wants to shrink the state (less regulation, less welfare).
- Neoconservatism wants to strengthen the state (more policing, stronger defence).
Thatcher combined both by pursuing free-market economics with a hard line on law and order and defence.
One-Nation vs New Right: A Comparison