Your Politics Guide

Conservatism is a political ideology that emphasises tradition, authority, and gradual change. This is seen through the phrase, "change to conserve." They value established institutions to maintain social order.

Tradition: Maintenance of long standing customs, institutions, and practices that provide stability.
Authority: Belief in a natural hierarchy and responsibility of leaders to guide society. Often referred to as paternalism The idea that those in authority should make decisions for others in their best interests. .
Order: Maintaining law, order, and social cohesion is essential for a stable society.
Pragmatism: Preference for practical solutions over abstract theory or radical reform.
Human Imperfection: Humans are flawed, therefore strong institutions are needed to prevent chaos.
Property: Support for private property as a source of independence.
Hierarchy: Acceptance of social inequality as natural and sometimes beneficial for social order.

Traditional Conservatism: Focuses on preserving the status quo The existing state of affairs or current situation, especially regarding social, political, or institutional arrangements. .
One Nation Conservatism: Advocates for social cohesion through limited welfare to reduce division and promote national unity.
New Right: Combines neo-liberal economics with socially conservative views.

Conservatism

Key Principles of Conservatism

Types of Conservatism

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