Michael Joseph Oakeshott was a British philosopher who significantly influenced conservative thought. He critiqued rationalism, emphasizing the importance of tradition and the rule of law in society. Oakeshott's works, such as 'Experience and its Modes' and 'Rationalism in Politics', argue for a pragmatic approach to politics and a civil association model of the state. His legacy continues to shape political theory and the understanding of conservative philosophy.
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Oakeshott's upbringing and education, including his father's involvement with the Fabian Society
Fellowship at Gonville and Caius College
Oakeshott's career at Cambridge University, including his fellowship at Gonville and Caius College
Oakeshott's distinct philosophical perspective, diverging from dominant European currents
Oakeshott's skepticism towards rationalism and appreciation for the role of tradition in society
Politics as a Complex and Unpredictable Realm
Oakeshott's view of politics as a complex and unpredictable realm, as described in "Rationalism in Politics"
Oakeshott's view of conservatism as a disposition that favors the known and tried over the new and speculative, and the concrete over the abstract
Oakeshott's distinction between historical and scientific modes of experience, emphasizing the subjective nature of human understanding
Oakeshott's rejection of the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason, championing the value of traditional knowledge and practices
Oakeshott's belief in the importance of individual experience and judgment, eschewing universal moral principles in favor of a societal order maintained through legality and civil interaction
Oakeshott's view of education as a means of passing down collective wisdom and practices to new generations
Oakeshott's proposal for a societal framework based on the rule of law and individual autonomy, rather than abstract goals
Oakeshott's exploration of the foundations of the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of individual freedom and civil order
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Oakeshott's main contribution to conservative thought
Influential in shaping modern conservatism; emphasized tradition, skepticism of rationalism in politics.
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Oakeshott's relationship with the Fabian Society
Father involved with Fabians; Oakeshott diverged, developing independent philosophy.
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Oakeshott's academic affiliation
Studied at Cambridge; became a fellow at Gonville and Caius College.
