What is Conservatism?

[vickistg]

In my travels this year, I've discovered that there appears to be as many definitions of conservatism as there are people who consider themselves to be one. I thought it would be interesting to get your thoughts on it. Hopefully, there are still enough of you out there to get a good sampling.

So, go ahead, tell us what it means to you.

[Watcher Of The Skies]

It's an ideology. I think it's grown into a broad spectrum and I'm not certain we should all be under the same umbrella.
Social, religious,constitutional, economical and fiscal conservatism all are characteristics of one who might be a conservative but someone who is fiscally conservative and desires to ban gun ownership is juxtaposed.
I think I see where you're going...I think.

[Frances]

Conservatives believe in personal responsibility. We are willing to let the occasional person "fall through the cracks" for the good of the whole.

Liberals beleive the government should fix everything and want all to suffer equally.

[theconservador]

this is true...I would call it protecting what protects us.

[Gambit]

Vicki, you've been listening to Glenn Beck, eh? jk

I'm a relatively new conservative. In fact, I never really understood the meaning until Mike Huckabee SHOWED me this year. I've always had a lot of conservative beliefs, but never realized what it meant to be "conservative."

To me, in American politics, "conservatism" means "traditional values" and simply put, "to conserve." In other words, to preserve the ideas, beliefs, laws, and values that founded the Untied States of America.

I have found out however, that conservatism has been distorted, redefined many times, criticized, and used as a label, just like "liberalism." I have also found out that many people say they are conservatives or vice versa, that they hate conservatives, but have no clue what it even means.

I think the problem is, too many modern-day American citizens (especially on the 2 coasts and in urban areas) are simply not raised and taught to care about politics, morality, or manners anymore. They don't understand how important politics (or rather, politicians and their policies/laws) really is, that it affects our every-day lives and to our future. Therefor, they don't care enough to research, discuss (in a civil manner), and THINK about what liberalism and conservatism really means.

Of course, our government has compounded to this problem, especially on the conservative side. Supposed conservatives (who calls themselves that) did not govern like conservatives the past decade... arguably longer. When people don't behave like what they claim themselves to be, it's very hard to convince others that you really are what you say you are. It's also really hard to explain what conservatism really is, when recent history has been so lacking of good examples of people who claim to be conservatives.

Anyway, that's my analysis of conservatism. I really hope that "true" conservatism and "true" conservative leaders rise from the ashes. Conservatism needs to be redefined, yet again. Otherwise, the U.S. is going to become something the founding fathers of this nation never intended this country to be, 200+ years ago.

[dei]

Good points ... I will be back later to add more ... should never check here when I don't have time to discuss.

[dei]

Just a few thoughts on how I think conservatism should operate in the political sphere:

• Financially conservative: does not believe all problems can be solved by throwing money at them. Seeks real solutions and endeavors to solve problems rather than pasting a dollar bill band aid on them.
• Believes the constitution is the foundation of our government and should be followed in all areas including operation of the branches of government.
• Understands that the primary responsibility of government is to defend the country; to levy such taxes as needed for the operation of government; to ensure equal protection under law for all citizens.
• Believes that government works best when people are empowered to succeed and approves policies that do so.
• Believes in a strong judiciary which is committed to preserving the union through their Constitutionally defined role.

There are probably more, but these are key points.

[Jeremy]

I have sadly come to the conclusion that conservatism is dead. So it really doesn't matter... but it used to mean you stood for smaller government and individual freedom.

[Philly Rabbit]

God ... Family .. The American Flag and ..

A Good Dog.

You're all set .. take it from there.

[Philly Rabbit]

I have sadly come to the conclusion that conservatism is dead. So it really doesn't matter... but it used to mean you stood for smaller government and individual freedom.

Sarah Palin.