5.1.4 Organic Society/State

Organic Society or State

An organic society or state is a key conservative belief that views society as a living organism, where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. This concept suggests that the society or state is more important than any individual or group within it, and that each part of society is interdependent, contributing to the stability and health of the whole.

Beliefs of Authority

• Natural Necessity: In an organic society, authority is seen as a natural and necessary element that arises to maintain order and cohesion. Authority needs to reflect the collective wisdom of the past and the needs of the present. Without a sense of hierarchy and respect for authority, society would descend into a state of anarchy.
• Guidance and Stability: Authority figures, such as leaders and institutions, are seen as essential for guiding society and ensuring stability. Since society is viewed as a complex organism, authority helps to manage its various parts, keeping them aligned and functioning together for the common good.
• Conservatives believe that authority helps individuals lead more fulfilling and purposeful lives. People are often willing to give up some personal freedoms in exchange for security, which helps explain the concept of the social contract.
• This social contract is the agreement among members of society to cooperate for the greater good, typically by sacrificing certain individual liberties in return for the protection provided by the state.

Beliefs of Hierarchy

• Natural Hierarchy: Conservatives argue that hierarchy is a natural and inevitable aspect of an organic society. Different roles and responsibilities are required to maintain the functioning of the whole, and these naturally lead to hierarchical structures.
• Roles and Responsibilities: In an organic society, hierarchy is not viewed as oppressive but as a means of ensuring that everyone plays a role suited to their abilities. This division of roles contributes to social harmony, as it allows society to function efficiently with each individual contributing in their own way.
• A cohesive society also requires a degree of hierarchy and a sense of deference towards authority figures.

A Cohesive Society

• Interdependence: The concept of an organic society emphasizes the interdependence of all its members. Just as in a biological organism, every part of society has a function that supports the whole. This interdependence fosters a sense of duty and responsibility among individuals to contribute to the well-being of society.
• Social Harmony: A cohesive society is one where the various parts work together harmoniously, guided by tradition, authority, and hierarchy. Conservatives believe that this cohesion is essential for maintaining order and stability, as it prevents the fragmentation and conflict that can arise when individuals or groups prioritize their interests over the common good.
• Respect for Tradition: Cohesion is also maintained through respect for tradition, which conservatives view as the accumulated wisdom of past generations. By adhering to tradition, society remains connected to its historical roots, ensuring continuity and stability.