SOCIAL POLICY AND PATERNALISM IN THE TRADITIONALISTIC POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY OF 17th CENTURY FRANCE[Социальная Политика И Патернализм В Традиционалистской Политической Философии Франции Xvii Века]

Introduction. Discussions on social policy in French traditionalism of the XVII century served as a source for philosophic considerations in the XVIII century, and defined the features of the French conservatism in the XIX century and specifics of the French welfare state in the XX century. The purpose of the article is to review the attitude of the French traditionalists of the XVII century on the social policy. Methods. The article relies on historic and comparative approach and analysis of institutions and shows the features of the political philosophy in France of the XVII century within the context of the social and political problems and religious polemics. Scientific novelty of the study. The article offers analysis of the social policy conceptions of the French traditionalistic philosophy of the XVII century and highlights in paternalistic feudalism the background for the development of the conservative philosophy and social policy. Results. Two main approaches coexisted within the French traditionalism of the XVII century: support of the traditional role of the aristocracy and advocacy of the strong monarchy. Both approaches held paternalistic views and believed that it was necessary for the strong to display responsibility for the well-being of the weak, they supported aid for the needy to preserve the social order and to for their education. Conclusions. Reflections of the French traditionalists of the XVII influenced the development of the unique structure of the welfare state in France, defined by the principle of solidarity, and coexistence of many different actors, with strong role of the state.