Conservatism

Conservatism: A Philosophy of Tradition and Stability

Conservatism is not just a political ideology; it’s a way of life, rooted in the belief that certain traditions and values are worth preserving. From Edmund Burke to Joseph de Maistre, these thinkers laid the groundwork for what we now recognize as conservative thought. The term ‘conservatism’ itself was first used in 1818 by François-René de Chateaubriand, marking a pivotal moment in its evolution from a philosophical concept to a political one.

But what exactly does conservatism stand for? At its core, it’s about tradition, human imperfection, and the organic nature of society. These five central beliefs—tradition, human imperfection, organic society, authority/hierarchy, and property—are the pillars upon which conservative thought is built. Let’s dive deeper into these concepts.

Tradition

Conservatism celebrates tradition because it believes that time-tested customs and institutions have value beyond their immediate utility. It’s a philosophy that values the wisdom of past generations, often viewing change with suspicion. This doesn’t mean conservatism is anti-change; rather, it advocates for change only when necessary and in a measured way.

Human Imperfection

‘Man is not an angel,’ as Burke famously said. This belief in human imperfection underpins much of conservative thought, leading to a negative view of human nature and a pessimism about the potential for utopian schemes.

Organic Society

The idea of an organic society suggests that social structures are like living organisms, evolving naturally over time rather than being imposed from above. This concept emphasizes the importance of local traditions and customs in shaping a community’s identity and values.

Authority/Hierarchy

A belief in traditional authority is central to conservatism. It sees hierarchy as natural and necessary, with respect for age, experience, and wisdom. Authority figures are seen not just as leaders but as custodians of established traditions and legitimacy.

Property

The protection of property rights is a cornerstone of conservative thought. Private ownership is viewed as essential to individual freedom and economic prosperity.

Global Perspectives on Conservatism

Conservatism has taken many forms around the world, from authoritarian regimes in Latin America and Eastern Europe to liberal-conservative parties in Western democracies.

• AUTHORITARIAN CONSERVATISM: Think of Marshal Philippe Pétain or General Francisco Franco. These leaders ruled with absolute authority, strong devotion to tradition, and a fervent nationalism. They often clashed with fascism but shared core values like nationalism.
• LIBERAL CONSERVATISM: This variant emphasizes minimal economic interventionism, state regulation, and social institutions. Think of Margaret Thatcher’s Britain or Ronald Reagan’s America.
• NATIONAL CONSERVatism: Prioritizes national sovereignty, defense, and cultural identity. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India is a prime example, promoting Hindu nationalism and conservative social policies.

Conservatism has evolved significantly over time, adapting to different contexts and challenges. From the Cold War’s authoritarian regimes to today’s globalized world, conservatism remains a dynamic force shaping political landscapes worldwide.

The Psychology of Conservatism

Psychological research sheds light on why some people are drawn to conservative ideologies. Traits like conscientiousness, disgust sensitivity, and social dominance orientation play significant roles in aligning individuals with conservative beliefs.

• Conscientiousness: Individuals who score high in this trait tend to identify more strongly with the right-wing political spectrum.
• Disgust Sensitivity: People highly sensitive to disgust are more likely to align with conservative values, valuing traditional ideals of purity and order.
• Authoritarianism: The right-wing authoritarian personality (RWA) describes someone who is submissive to authority, aggressive in its name, and conformist. While conservatism isn’t synonymous with RWA, it often aligns with these traits.

In conclusion, conservatism is a multifaceted philosophy that has evolved over centuries, adapting to different cultural contexts and political landscapes. From the traditional values of Burke to the modern-day challenges faced by conservative parties around the world, this ideology continues to shape our understanding of society and governance. Whether you embrace its principles or oppose them, it’s clear that conservatism remains a powerful force in shaping the future.