Academic Definition & Theory

Conservatism is a political ideology or philosophy that emphasizes the preservation of traditional institutions, values, and practices. It seeks to maintain the existing social, economic, and political order, and is skeptical of radical or abrupt changes that might disrupt this order.

Conservatives believe that society is best served by preserving the tried-and-tested traditions, customs, and practices that have stood the test of time. They generally support free-market capitalism, limited government, and individual liberty, but also stress the importance of maintaining social order and stability. Conservatives also value the importance of family, religion, and community, and are often critical of social changes that undermine these institutions.

In terms of foreign policy, conservatives tend to support a strong national defense and assertive foreign policy, and are often wary of international organizations and alliances that might infringe upon national sovereignty. Overall, conservatism is a political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of tradition, stability, and continuity, and seeks to balance the preservation of established institutions with the need for progress and change.

What is Conservatism in layman terms?

Conservatism is a political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional values, customs, and institutions. It advocates for maintaining the existing social, economic, and political order, and is often skeptical of rapid or radical changes that might disrupt this order. Conservatives generally support free-market capitalism, limited government, individual liberty, family, religion, and community, and are often critical of social changes that undermine these institutions.

What is an example of Conservatism?

An example of conservatism would be a political leader or party that seeks to preserve traditional values, customs, and institutions. For instance, a conservative politician might advocate for maintaining the existing economic and political order, and be skeptical of radical or sudden changes that might disrupt it. They might also support the traditional family structure, religious values, and community institutions, and oppose social changes that they believe could undermine these values. An example of a conservative political party in the United States is the Republican Party, which is generally associated with conservative values and policies.

What are the main features of Conservatism?

The main features of conservatism include:

1. Emphasis on tradition: Conservatives place a strong emphasis on preserving traditional values, institutions, and practices, and are generally resistant to rapid social or political changes.
2. Skepticism of radical change: Conservatives tend to be skeptical of radical or sudden changes that might disrupt established social, economic, or political order, and instead favor gradual change over time.
3. Support for free-market capitalism: Conservatives generally support a free-market economy and limited government intervention in the economy, believing that individual liberty and free enterprise are the keys to economic prosperity.
4. Emphasis on individual responsibility: Conservatives place a strong emphasis on individual responsibility and self-reliance, believing that people should be responsible for their own welfare and should not rely on the government for support.
5. Value of family, religion, and community: Conservatives generally value the importance of family, religion, and community, and are often critical of social changes that undermine these institutions.
6. Strong national defense: Conservatives tend to support a strong national defense and assertive foreign policy, and are often wary of international organizations and alliances that might infringe upon national sovereignty.

Overall, conservatism is a political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional values and institutions, and balancing the need for change and progress with the need for stability and continuity.

Conservatism in Indian context

In the Indian context, conservatism is a political ideology that emphasizes the preservation of traditional Indian Bhartiya values and institutions, and is often associated with the Hindu nationalist movement. Indian conservatism is rooted in the idea of Sanatan Dharm, Hindu culture and traditions, and emphasizes the importance of religious and cultural identity in Indian society.

Indian conservatives often support free-market economics and limited government intervention, as well as strong national defense and a strong stance against terrorism. They tend to be critical of social changes that they see as undermining traditional Indian values and institutions, such as the rise of Western-style secularism, globalization, and cultural homogenization.

At the same time, Indian conservatives recognize the need for modernization and progress, but emphasize the importance of preserving Indian identity and culture in the face of these changes. They often view India as a unique and distinct civilization with a long and rich history, and seek to promote Indian culture and values both domestically and internationally.

Overall, Indian conservatism is a complex and evolving political ideology that seeks to balance the need for progress and modernization with the need to preserve traditional Indian values and institutions. It is often associated with the Hindu nationalist movement and is a significant force in Indian politics today.