Conservatism

Definition

Conservatism is a political and social philosophy that emphasizes traditional values, limited government, and maintaining established institutions and practices. It is often contrasted with more progressive or liberal ideologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conservatives generally favor a smaller, less intrusive government and believe in preserving traditional social and economic structures.
2. Conservatism often opposes rapid social change and emphasizes the importance of upholding established institutions and practices.
3. Conservatives tend to be skeptical of government intervention in the economy and support free market capitalism as the best means of promoting prosperity.
4. Many conservatives believe in a strict interpretation of the U.S. Constitution and are wary of judicial activism that expands the power of the federal government.
5. Conservatism is often associated with traditional gender roles, religious values, and a strong national defense, though the specific positions of conservatives can vary.

Review Questions

• Explain how the conservative philosophy relates to the nature of public opinion.
  • Conservatism's emphasis on traditional values and resistance to rapid social change often aligns with the views of the general public. Conservatives tend to be more attuned to the concerns and preferences of the majority, as reflected in public opinion polls. They may be less inclined to support policies that deviate significantly from the status quo, as they believe the public generally favors stability and the preservation of established institutions and practices.
• Analyze how the two-party system in the United States is influenced by conservative ideology.
  • The Republican Party is generally considered the more conservative of the two major political parties in the United States. Conservatives have had a significant influence on the Republican Party's platform, which often includes policies that align with their beliefs in limited government, free market economics, traditional social values, and a strong national defense. This ideological alignment has helped the Republican Party maintain a consistent base of conservative voters, contributing to the two-party dynamic in American politics.
• Evaluate the role of conservatism in shaping the political landscape and public discourse in the United States.
  • Conservatism has been a dominant force in American politics, with its influence extending beyond the Republican Party. The conservative movement has shaped public discourse by advocating for policies that align with its core principles, such as tax cuts, restrictions on abortion, and a more assertive foreign policy. Conservatives have also been instrumental in the appointment of federal judges who favor a strict interpretation of the Constitution, which can have long-lasting impacts on the legal and political landscape. The ongoing tension between conservative and progressive ideologies has been a defining feature of the American political system, with both sides vying to shape the direction of the country.

Related terms

Traditionalism: The belief in and desire to maintain long-standing customs, institutions, and values within a society.

Limited Government: The principle of restricting the power and scope of the government to protect individual liberties and free markets.

Classical Liberalism: A political ideology that emphasizes individual rights, limited government, free markets, and a non-interventionist foreign policy.