Question

How did some political philosophers defend colonialism?

Answer 1

1. Some political philosophers defended colonialism and imperialism arguing that their action was a civilizing mission.
2. The rationale was that a temporary period of political dependence or tutelage was necessary for uncivilized societies to advance to the point.
3. This is captured by the phrase ‘The Whiteman’s Burden’ in a poem by Rudyard Kipling.