Conservatism

Definition

Conservatism is a political philosophy that emphasizes the value of tradition, social stability, and maintaining established institutions. This ideology advocates for gradual change rather than radical transformation, often supporting a strong role for government in preserving order and promoting moral values. Conservatives generally believe in the importance of hierarchy and authority in society, viewing these as essential for a cohesive social structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conservatism emerged as a distinct political ideology in the late 18th century as a reaction to the Enlightenment and the French Revolution.
2. Key figures in conservative thought include Edmund Burke, who emphasized the importance of tradition and gradual change over radical reforms.
3. Conservatives often advocate for free-market policies while also supporting government intervention to uphold social values and norms.
4. In contemporary politics, conservatism can manifest in various forms, including fiscal conservatism, social conservatism, and neoconservatism.
5. Conservative movements have played significant roles in various political systems worldwide, often opposing socialist and progressive agendas.

Review Questions

• How does conservatism's emphasis on tradition influence its approach to political change?
  • Conservatism places a strong emphasis on tradition, which influences its approach to political change by advocating for gradual evolution rather than sudden upheaval. This philosophy views established institutions and cultural norms as vital for maintaining social order and cohesion. As a result, conservatives tend to resist radical changes that could disrupt societal stability, preferring incremental reforms that respect historical context and proven practices.
• Discuss the relationship between conservatism and social hierarchy within political systems.
  • Conservatism often supports the idea of social hierarchy, viewing it as necessary for a well-functioning society. Conservatives believe that established authorities and traditional roles provide stability and prevent chaos. This acceptance of hierarchy can manifest in support for institutions such as the family, religion, and government structures that reinforce authority. As such, conservatives typically advocate for policies that preserve these hierarchies as integral to maintaining order and moral values within society.
• Evaluate the impact of conservative ideologies on modern political systems and their responses to liberal movements.
  • Conservative ideologies have significantly influenced modern political systems by providing a counterbalance to liberal movements advocating for rapid change and reform. In response to liberal agendas, conservatives often emphasize the need for stability and continuity, arguing that abrupt changes can lead to negative consequences. This dynamic creates a complex interplay between conservatism and liberalism, where conservative parties mobilize support by advocating for traditional values while navigating contemporary issues like economic policy, immigration, and social rights. Ultimately, this ongoing negotiation shapes the landscape of political discourse and policy-making in democratic societies.

Related terms

Liberalism: A political ideology that advocates for individual rights, equality, and social justice, often supporting significant reforms to address societal issues.

Traditionalism: A belief system that emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural and historical practices and values within society.

Reactionary: An extreme form of conservatism that seeks to return to a previous state of society or governance, often idealizing the past.