Conservatism

Definition

Conservatism is a political ideology that emphasizes the preservation of traditional values, institutions, and social structures. It typically advocates for limited government, free-market economics, and the protection of individual liberties and private property rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conservatism often opposes rapid social change and emphasizes the importance of maintaining existing institutions and power structures.
2. Conservatives typically believe in the natural rights of individuals, including the right to private property, and oppose government intervention in the economy.
3. Conservatism has its roots in the philosophical writings of thinkers like Edmund Burke, who argued for the gradual evolution of society rather than revolutionary change.
4. Conservatives often support traditional gender roles, religious values, and hierarchical social structures, which they see as essential for maintaining social stability.
5. Conservatism has been a dominant political force in many Western countries, influencing policies related to economic, social, and foreign affairs.

Review Questions

• Explain how the conservative ideology relates to the concept of individuals, groups, and institutions in political science.
  • Conservatism emphasizes the importance of traditional institutions and social structures, such as the family, the church, and the free market, in shaping individual and group behavior. Conservatives often believe that these institutions play a crucial role in maintaining social stability and order, and they oppose rapid or revolutionary changes that could disrupt these established systems. Conservatives also tend to value individual rights and liberties, and they may be skeptical of government intervention in the private sphere, which they see as a threat to individual autonomy and the natural rights of citizens.
• Describe how the conservative worldview influences the political choices that humans make, as discussed in the context of the topic 'Why Do Humans Make the Political Choices That They Do?'.
  • Conservatives' emphasis on traditional values, social structures, and limited government often leads them to make political choices that prioritize the preservation of the status quo over rapid change or progressive reforms. Conservatives may be more likely to support policies that protect individual freedoms, private property rights, and the free market, while opposing government interventions that they perceive as infringing on these liberties. Additionally, conservatives' belief in the importance of hierarchical social structures and traditional gender roles can shape their political preferences, as they may be more inclined to support policies that reinforce these traditional social norms.
• Analyze the relationship between conservatism and the classical origins of Western political ideologies, as discussed in the context of the topic 'The Classical Origins of Western Political Ideologies'.
  • Conservatism has its roots in the classical Western political tradition, particularly in the writings of thinkers like Edmund Burke, who argued for the gradual evolution of society rather than revolutionary change. Conservatives often draw inspiration from the ideas of ancient Greek and Roman philosophers, who emphasized the importance of tradition, hierarchy, and the natural order of things. Additionally, the conservative emphasis on individual rights, private property, and limited government can be traced back to the classical liberal tradition, which also had a significant influence on the development of Western political thought. By understanding the classical origins of conservatism, we can better contextualize its role in shaping the broader landscape of Western political ideologies.

Related terms

Classical Liberalism: A political ideology that emphasizes individual rights, limited government, and free-market capitalism.

Traditionalism: The belief in and adherence to long-standing customs, practices, and social norms.

Nationalism: The belief in and promotion of the interests of one's own nation, often accompanied by a sense of superiority over other nations.