1. Social Studies 30-1 - Key Issue To what extent should we embrace an ideology?

2. Related Issues
To what extent should ideology be the foundation of identity?
To what extent is resistance to liberalism justified?
To what extent are the principles of liberalism viable?
To what extent should my actions as a citizen be shaped by an ideology?

3. What is an IDEOLOGY? Ideology can be a key aspect of identity.
Most ideologies end with an -ism
Ideologies are a system of beliefs that we use to explain our view of the world.
In politics, ideology refers to the ideas, principles and ethics that a political system is based on.
Some ideologies focus on the role of the individual or collective in relation to society.

4. Individualism
Individualism emphasize individual values such as independence, self- interest, competition, individual rights and freedoms, rule of law, private property, and economic freedom.

5. Collectivism
Collectivism emphasizes collective or group values such as collective responsibility, collective interest, co- operation, economic equality, adherence to collective norms, and public property.

6. Are you an Individualist or Collectivist?
Complete the questionnaire - Handout
Grey Area
Controversial issues often have no easy solution.
Sometimes conflicts originate because individuals and societies are unable or unwilling to consider the grey area between two sides of an issue.
After the terrorist attacks of 9/11, President George W. Bush said, “You’re either with us or against us in the fight against terror.” He saw the issue as black and white, but was there a grey area?

7. If my country needs me, should I sacrifice my life in a war?
YES
I am loyal to my
country and I will
fight to protect it.
• There are rights
my country grants
me that I am
willing to die for.
• Sometimes military
force is the only
solution to a conflict. NO
• Life is sacred and
killing another human
being is wrong.
• Every thing can be talked
through, even complex
misunderstandings
between countries.
• Nothing is solved
through violence.
BUT?

8. Collectivism Individualism
The group, or collective, is important and more valuable than a single individual.
It is important to contribute to the group and to be like the group.
The strength of the group relies on the contributions of everyone, and the individual may need to sacrifice.
The entire group is responsible for its members’ actions.
Co-operation is the best way to succeed.
Individuals are important, and entitled to make decisions.
The individual should take initiative and value personal achievements.
The individual is responsible for his or her own welfare.
Laws should protect individual rights.
Private property and individual wealth are valued.

9. The Political Spectrum
Ultra Left Ultra Right
Radical Liberal Moderate Conservative Reactionary
Left wing implies collectivism, economic equality and gov’t intervention
Right wing implies individualism, economic liberty and laissez-faire gov’t

10. Radical – a political extremist – instant change
Liberal – a person who favours reform, especially in government, economics, and religion and who prefers democratic forms of government in a constitutional state – rapid change
Moderate – a political “middle-of-the-roader” who believes in compromise or balance - gradual change

11. Conservative – a philosophy that advocates institutions and traditional practices that have developed organically, thus emphasizing stability and continuity
Reactionary – any political or social movement or ideology that seeks a return to a previous state - the status quo

12. “There are some aspects of our identities over which we have no control: our cultural background, gender, and family.”
Why don’t we have control over these aspects?

13. What factors influence collective and individual beliefs and values
What factors influence collective and individual beliefs and values? – p.31
Religion and Spirituality
Gender
Relationship to the land
Environment
Media
Language and Ideology
Family
Culture
Government