Conservatism

Conservatism: A Philosophy Rooted in Tradition and Stability

Imagine a world where the past is cherished more than the future, where tradition and stability are paramount, and where change is met with skepticism. This is the essence of conservatism—a philosophy that seeks to preserve and promote traditional institutions, customs, and values. But what exactly does this mean in practice? How has it evolved over time, and who are its key figures?

The Five Canons of Conservatism

According to Russell Kirk, a leading conservative thinker, the five canons of conservatism include a belief in a transcendent order, an affection for human variety, a conviction that society requires orders and classes, a belief in property and freedom, and a faith in custom and tradition. These principles form the bedrock upon which modern conservatism is built.

Conservatism’s Diverse Manifestations

The term ‘conservative’ has been applied to a wide range of views, from the traditional to the hierarchical. In Western culture, conservatives often seek to maintain and strengthen institutions such as the nuclear family, organized religion, the military, and property rights. But what about authoritarian conservatism? This form of conservatism is characterized by autocratic regimes that portray authority as absolute and unquestionable. Examples include Marshal Philippe Pétain in France, Regent Miklós Horthy in Hungary, General Ioannis Metaxas in Greece, and King Alexander I in Yugoslavia.

Liberal Conservatism: A Blend of Ideologies

Liberal conservatism is a variant that combines classical liberal stances with conservative views on law and order. National conservatism prioritizes national sovereignty and cultural identity, while paternalistic conservatism emphasizes social obligations and the importance of a social safety net. Progressive conservatism seeks to combine economic liberalism with social reform.

The Global Resurgence of Authoritarian Conservatism

In recent decades, authoritarian conservative movements have experienced a worldwide renaissance. Leaders such as Vladimir Putin in Russia, Recep Tayip Erdoğan in Turkey, Viktor Orbán in Hungary, Narendra Modi in India, and Donald Trump in the United States have taken power. These leaders often emphasize traditional values, national sovereignty, and cultural identity while suppressing opposition.

Conservatism’s Evolution Across Cultures

The evolution of conservatism is evident across different cultures and time periods. In China, for instance, Chinese conservatism can be traced back to Confucius, who believed in a hierarchically organized society with an absolute sovereign and a meritocratic class of administrators. The Communist Party (CCP) has historically opposed this form of conservatism, especially during the Cultural Revolution. However, recent decades have seen a national revival of Confucianism and Legalism.

Conservatism in Modern Democracies

In modern democracies, conservative parties often define themselves by their opposition to liberal or socialist parties. In Singapore, for example, the People’s Action Party (PAP) promotes Asian democracy and values including nation before community and family as the basic unit of society. The PAP has been in government since independence in 1965 and is the longest uninterrupted governing party among modern multiparty parliamentary democracies.

Conclusion: A Philosophy of Stability and Tradition

Conservatism, at its core, is a philosophy that values stability and tradition. It seeks to preserve and promote traditional institutions, customs, and values while opposing radical change. Whether through authoritarian regimes or liberal democracies, conservatism remains a powerful force in shaping the political landscape.