The First Earl of Shaftesbury's Resolute Conscience and Aristocratic Constitutionalism

Abstract This article provides a reappraisal of the first earl Shaftesbury (1621–83) and challenges his reputation as an unprincipled politician. Conversely, it is argued that Shaftesbury's opposition to both Cromwell during Protectorate Charles II in Restoration was guided by resolute ‘conscience’. While there certainly elasticity conduct, very much product political education framed Civil War Commonwealth eras. The explicitly demonstrates through exposition activity thought 1650s 1670s four guiding values remained consistent career. Both periods were shaped concerns over religious tyranny overbearing executive threat ‘lives, liberty, property’ from ruler, church, army. significance lies aristocratic constitutionalism he believed offered restraint encroachment people government. Relying upon long-established traditions positioned nobility independent bridle against arbitrary government, suggested forward-thinking vision elite rule supported people. In clarifying values, rejects interpretations him republican, Neo-Harringtonian, or believer popular government (democracy).