Unit 2 - UK

Front

Constitution of the Crown

Back

The 'constitution' of Britain that evolved over time, composed of important documents, common law, and tradition/customs.

Front

Thatcherism

Back

Conservatives selected Margaret Thatcher as their leader. Her economic and political stance gained power in 1979. She privatized business & industry, cut back on social welfare, strengthened national defense, and returned to market force controls. Critics believed her policies worsened the economy and divided the country.

Front

Insularity

Back

The feeling of separation from Europe, causing Britain to be cautious about EU participation. Britain remains insular by not adopting the euro and maintaining the pound.

Front

Noblesse oblige

Back

The duty of upper classes to take responsibility for the welfare of the lower classes.

Front

Welfare state

Back

A government that takes responsibility for the welfare of its citizens through programs in public health, housing, pensions, and unemployment compensation.

Front

Gradualism

Back

The belief in advancing toward a goal by gradual stages, explaining the transition of policy-making power from the King to Parliament.

Front

Beveridge Report

Back

Provided for a social insurance program making all citizens eligible for health, unemployment, pension, and other benefits.

Front

Mixed economy

Back

The government directs the economy and nationalizes major industries while maintaining capitalism principles like private property ownership.

Front

Neoliberalism

Back

Revival of classic liberal values, supporting low government regulation, taxation, and social expenditures, and protection of individual property rights.

Front

Third way

Back

A centrist alternative to the old Labour Party on the left and the Conservative Party on the right, associated with Tony Blair.