Conservatism

Definition

Conservatism is a political ideology that emphasizes tradition, stability, and maintaining established institutions, advocating for gradual change rather than radical shifts. It seeks to preserve existing social orders and values, often promoting limited government intervention in economic affairs while supporting a strong national defense and social order.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conservatism in the U.S. gained prominence during the late 20th century with the rise of figures like Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan, shaping the Republican Party's platform.
2. Key principles of conservatism include personal responsibility, limited government, free markets, and strong national defense.
3. Social issues like abortion, gun rights, and immigration are often at the forefront of conservative policy discussions.
4. The New Deal Coalition's decline in the 1960s led to a resurgence of conservative ideologies, particularly among white, middle-class voters in the South and West.
5. Conservatives often oppose extensive government regulations in favor of individual liberties and market solutions to social problems.

Review Questions

• How has conservatism evolved over time in response to significant political events and social changes in the United States?
  • Conservatism has evolved significantly from its early roots, adapting to major political events such as the New Deal and the Civil Rights Movement. The decline of the New Deal Coalition in the 1960s allowed conservatism to gain traction among disenchanted voters who felt alienated by liberal policies. This evolution was marked by a focus on personal responsibility and a return to traditional values, which resonated particularly in the South and among suburban voters.
• In what ways do key issues like healthcare and taxation reveal the fundamental principles of conservatism?
  • Key issues like healthcare and taxation illustrate conservatism's emphasis on limited government intervention and fiscal responsibility. Conservatives typically advocate for private sector solutions rather than government-run programs, believing that competition can drive down costs and improve quality. In taxation debates, conservatives often argue for lower taxes as a means to stimulate economic growth, emphasizing personal freedom and individual choice as core values.
• Evaluate the impact of conservatism on party identification and voting patterns in contemporary American politics.
  • The impact of conservatism on party identification and voting patterns is significant, as it shapes the Republican Party's platform and influences voter behavior. Many Americans identify with conservative principles related to economics, social issues, and national defense. This alignment has resulted in consistent support for conservative candidates in elections, especially among rural, white voters who prioritize issues like gun rights and immigration control. As conservatism continues to evolve with contemporary challenges, its influence will likely persist in shaping American political dynamics.

Related terms

Traditionalism: A belief system that prioritizes the customs and practices of a particular culture or society, often central to conservative ideologies.

Fiscal Conservatism:

An economic philosophy advocating for reduced government spending, lower taxes, and balanced budgets, central to many conservative platforms.

Social Conservatism: A branch of conservatism that emphasizes the preservation of traditional values and social norms, often focusing on issues like family structure and morality.