Your Politics Guide

Edmund Burke (1729-1797) is known as the father of traditional conservatism. He championed gradual change whilst maintaining respect for tradition.

Tradition: Burke argued that society should respect inherited customs and institutions. This is because they embody the wisdom of past generations.
Organic Society: He saw society as a living organism, with individuals bound together by shared values. This means that sudden changes can disrupt social harmony.
Gradual Change: Burke opposed radical change. Revolution was out of the question for him. Instead, Burke favoured gradual reform that preserves stability. Reform should be based on empiricism Decisions should be be based on experience and evidence. .
Community and Order: He believed that strong communities are essential for order. It allows humans to flourish.
Limited Government: Burke supported government, if it respects tradition and works for the common good. However, he did warn against unchecked power.

Burke's ideas shaped the development of traditional conservatism. Later down the line, it also influenced the development of one-nation conservatism.
He inspired later conservatives to value gradual reform, social cohesion, and respect for tradition.
His critique of the French Revolution remains influential in debates about change and stability.

Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790) - Burke's book defending tradition against radical revolution.

Edmund Burke