New Right - GCSE Sociology Definition

The "New Right" is a political perspective that emerged in the late 20th century, characterised by its advocacy for free market economics, a reduction in state intervention, and a return to traditional social values.

In sociology, the New Right is often associated with the promotion of self-reliance and the belief that welfare dependency can undermine personal responsibility and family structures. It emphasises the importance of a strong, traditional family unit, often suggesting that changes in family patterns are linked to various social problems.

Key figures, such as Margaret Thatcher in the UK and Ronald Reagan in the US, have been pivotal in advancing New Right ideologies, which advocate for policies that prioritise individual responsibility and limit governmental influence in personal and economic matters.