Conservatism

Definition

Conservatism is a political and social philosophy that emphasizes the value of tradition, stability, and maintaining established institutions. This ideology often resists rapid change and advocates for gradual development instead, prioritizing the preservation of cultural and historical norms. In the context of political thought, conservatism can shape governance by promoting policies that favor continuity over reform.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conservatism emerged as a formal political ideology in response to the French Revolution, which challenged traditional authority and societal structures.
2. Key figures in the development of conservative thought include Edmund Burke, who argued for the importance of tradition and gradual reform.
3. Conservatives often advocate for limited government intervention in the economy, emphasizing personal responsibility and free market principles.
4. The conservative movement can vary significantly across different cultures and countries, adapting its core principles to local contexts and values.
5. In the 20th century, conservatism often aligned with nationalism and anti-communism, particularly during the Cold War period.

Review Questions

• How did the events of the French Revolution influence the development of conservatism as a political ideology?
  • The French Revolution served as a catalyst for the development of conservatism by highlighting the dangers of radical change and upheaval. Many thinkers, like Edmund Burke, criticized the revolution's violent approach to reform and emphasized the need to preserve traditional institutions and values. This reaction led to a more structured conservative philosophy that sought to balance change with respect for historical context.
• Discuss the differences between conservatism and liberalism in terms of their approach to change and governance.
  • Conservatism and liberalism differ fundamentally in their approach to change and governance. While conservatism values tradition and prefers gradual reforms to maintain stability, liberalism advocates for individual freedoms and societal progress through more immediate changes. This divergence can lead to contrasting policies regarding economic regulation, social issues, and the role of government in citizens' lives.
• Evaluate how conservatism has adapted in different cultural contexts throughout history, particularly in response to political challenges.
  • Conservatism has shown remarkable adaptability across various cultural contexts throughout history. For instance, in post-World War II Europe, conservative parties often emerged as defenders against communist influence while promoting economic recovery through free-market policies. In other regions, such as parts of Asia or Africa, conservatism may intertwine with nationalist movements or religious values, reflecting local priorities while still holding onto core principles like tradition and stability. This flexibility allows conservatism to respond effectively to distinct political challenges while maintaining its foundational ideals.

Related terms

Liberalism: A political ideology that emphasizes individual freedoms, equality, and reform, often advocating for significant changes in government structure and society.

Reactionary: A term describing individuals or groups who seek to return to a previous state of society, opposing progress and modernity.

Tradition: The transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, which conservatism often aims to preserve in the face of change.