Tory socialism facts for kids

Tory socialism is a term used by some historians to describe a special way of thinking in politics. It combines ideas from both Toryism (a type of conservatism) and socialism. This idea suggests that the government should be active in helping people and building strong communities, rather than just focusing on free markets.

This term was often used to describe the ideas of former British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. It was also used by early members of the Fabian Society, which was a British socialist group. Other people linked to this idea include Stanley Baldwin and Harold Macmillan, who were also prime ministers in the 1930s.

What is Tory Socialism?

Some writers and journalists have described Tory socialism as a way of thinking that is different from typical liberalism or capitalism. They see it as a belief that puts community and traditional values first, rather than just focusing on money or economic growth.

Community and Tradition

For example, the Country Squire Magazine described Tory socialists as people who don't praise liberal capitalism. Instead, they believe it can harm communities and traditional ways of life.

A journalist named Tim Stanley wrote in The Spectator that Tory socialism is more of a philosophy than a strict set of rules. He said it rejects the idea that only money matters. Instead, it believes that culture and community are very important for how a country is run. He explained that it puts spiritual values before economic ones. It sees people as part of a community shaped by long-standing traditions and customs.

Social Reform and Protectionism

Historically, this idea also connects to a time when Tories supported protectionism. This meant they wanted to protect local industries and jobs from foreign competition. They also supported social reforms, which are changes to improve society and help ordinary people.

Different Views on Tory Socialism

Many people who support free-market ideas use the term "Tory socialism" to describe certain types of conservatism. These types of conservatism are more open to reforms and believe the government should play a bigger role in society. This is sometimes called paternalistic conservatism, where the government acts a bit like a parent, looking after its citizens.

For example, some American thinkers, like Murray Rothbard, said that the domestic policies of former US President Richard Nixon were like Tory socialism. They believed Nixon's approach was similar to what they called "big government conservatism." This shows that the term can be used to describe different political ideas that involve a more active government role, even if they are from different countries or political parties.

See also

• Bourgeois socialism
• Conservative corporatism
• One-nation conservatism
• Red Tory
• Yellow socialism