The State in Conservatism Thought and Its Consequences for Public Law

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Master of Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.

Abstract

Conservatism is an idea that has unique characteristics across different nations, but it also shares some common traits. These include a critique of rationalism, a reluctance to make fundamental changes, and defense of inequality. Edmund Burke's current developed conservatism as a response to the French Revolution. This concept advocates for maintaining the status quo, not in opposition to change, but by preferring to avoid unnecessary alterations and reforms, and by proposing improvements only when the current situation is deemed satisfactory. It rejects the notion that human wisdom alone can solve society's problems. In politics, conservatism can be seen as a reliance on tradition, customs, and practical procedures in political activities. Conservatives do not embrace the positivist approach to public law, which defines it within the confines of legal rules and overlooks the role of traditions and political procedures. This research aims to express the characteristics of the state in conservatism thought and then describes its impact on public law. The findings suggest that conservatism advocates for a limited state, support for decentralization, empowerment of voluntary social associations, and attention to the implementation of welfare policies. This ideology views public law within the framework of political traditions and practices rather than solely as legal rules.

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  • Receive Date: 18 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 01 September 2024
  • Accept Date: 08 September 2024

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