Ideology: Its Roots and Impact on Politics

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‘Ideology’ can be a term used to describe a set of beliefs in which forms the basis for the Government of a nation, group of people or way of life. It details how society should be organised and the methods of which to achieve this society. The Magna Carta can be recognized as an ideological document as it lays out the system if beliefs held by the free men of England in the 13th Century. It also forms a foundation for contemporary understanding of political ideologies, such as neo-Liberalism, however also offers a point of argument for many political ideologies.

Count Antoine Destutt de Tracy, a French materialist in the 18th century is given credit for the creation of the term ‘Ideology.’ He used this word to describe the ‘science of ideas.’ …show more content…

It believes that when it comes to social issues the decision, which allows the individual to have the most freedom, or ability to make the most choices. However the economy is viewed conservatively, and endorses ideas that leave decisions to the free market. It also believes that the Government should not play a major role in all areas. It is believed that the government should only rule on issues that affect the function of the state.

The Magna Carta is one of the most prominent political documents in history. Its concepts can still be identified in modern law. It has helped to create basic human rights such as ‘innocence until proven guilty’ principle and the right to justice. It was created in the 13th Century during the reign of King John, brother of King Richard I, also known as Richard the Lionheart. King John was the son of King Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. As he was left no land by his Father, after his death, John was known as John Lackland.
John had proved to be an incapable leader when his father had sent him to rule over Ireland in 1185. His reign of Ireland lasted six months before he was sent back to England. In 1191, King Richard left England to lead a crusade (the Third) and left his brother as King regent whilst on his

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