5.3.6 Pragmatism: Conservatism as Practical Approach (Michael Oakeshott)

Michael Oakeshott on Pragmatism

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For Michael Oakeshott, pragmatism is a central tenet of conservatism. He argued that conservatism is not a rigid ideology but rather an approach to politics that is grounded in practical experience and the careful management of existing realities.

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According to Oakeshott, pragmatism involves making decisions based on what works in practice, rather than adhering to abstract theories or ideological commitments.

This approach reflects a deep respect for the complexity of human society and the unpredictable nature of political life.
Oakeshott believed that political action should be guided by a consideration of the concrete circumstances and traditions of a society, rather than by the pursuit of utopian goals or the imposition of theoretical models.
He argued that political leaders should focus on the practicalities of governance, responding to immediate needs and preserving social order, rather than attempting to achieve grand visions of societal transformation.

Oakeshott viewed conservatism as more of a practical disposition than a fixed set of beliefs. He famously described the conservative mindset as being "more disposed to be sceptical about change than to advocate it," emphasizing a preference for what is known and tested over the uncertainty of the new.
This pragmatic approach means that conservatives should be cautious and deliberate in their actions, avoiding sudden or radical changes that could disrupt the delicate balance of society.

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In Oakeshott's view, political decision-making should be grounded in a careful consideration of historical context, existing institutions, and the practical consequences of any proposed change. This pragmatic approach contrasts sharply with the more ideological and rationalist approaches that seek to impose a specific vision or blueprint on society.

Oakeshott's pragmatism is closely tied to his respect for tradition. He believed that traditions represent the accumulated wisdom of past generations, and therefore, they provide a reliable guide for present and future action. For Oakeshott, the role of tradition is to offer practical solutions that have been tested and refined over time. This aligns with his pragmatic approach to politics, where decisions are based on what has been proven to work, rather than on abstract theories.
Oakeshott argued that traditions should be respected because they embody the practical knowledge and experience necessary for maintaining social stability.
In this sense, pragmatism and tradition are interlinked in his conservative thought; tradition provides the foundation for pragmatic decision-making, ensuring that changes are made carefully and with respect for the established order.

Oakeshott's emphasis on pragmatism has had a profound influence on conservative ideology. His ideas reinforce the conservative preference for gradual, evolutionary change over revolutionary or ideological approaches. By advocating for pragmatism, Oakeshott highlighted the importance of flexibility and adaptability in political decision-making, recognizing that society is complex and that no single ideological framework can fully capture its intricacies.
This pragmatic approach also underpins the conservative belief in the value of tradition and established institutions. Oakeshott's philosophy suggests that the best way to navigate the uncertainties of political life is through a cautious, pragmatic approach that respects the lessons of history and the accumulated wisdom of society.

Michael Oakeshott's concept of pragmatism is a key element of his conservative philosophy. He argued that conservatism is not about adhering to a fixed ideology, but about making practical decisions based on experience, tradition, and the realities of the present.
Oakeshott's pragmatism emphasizes the importance of flexibility, caution, and respect for the complexities of human society.
His ideas continue to shape conservative thought, particularly in the emphasis on gradual change, the value of tradition, and the rejection of ideological rigidity in favor of practical wisdom.