WHAT CONSERVATISM MEANS TO ME
The frame of reference for the true conservative is Western Civilization. It is something that commands allegiance because of its inherent goodness and beauty, but also because it is the basis for the modern world and its achievements. Without Western Civilization, it is almost impossible to imagine the development of democracy, rational jurisprudence, laboratory science, advanced technology, or the hope of bringing the mass of humankind out of the bondage of ignorance, disease, and endless toil.
The conservative looks with alarm at attacks on the fundamental values and practices of Western Civilization, and seeks to defend it, not only for its sake, but for the sake of the world, which must progress or die. Many things may change without harm; many things may even be an improvement; but no one should treat lightly the fundamental ideas, precepts, customs, attitudes, and institutions that have developed over millennia in the West, and which incorporate within them mechanisms for criticism and improvement that should be respected.
The conservative understands that one cannot put everything up for grabs without losing one's bearings, and therefore that hallowed ideas and institutions should be treated carefully, and much should be considered as settled at any given time. He understands that society has to work through its problems, and that no governmental solution exists for many of them. He understands that an attack on a person's cherished beliefs and customs is an attack on that person, and that we should be very careful about stirring up anger and division in society by clumsy attempts to interfere with community norms and private traditions. He is leery of an activist government, and sets a high bar before supporting anything resembling social engineering.
In other ways, he considers the onus on those who want to use governmental power to accomplish their ends. He is leery of taking economic power out of the private sector, and of federalizing issues that could be dealt with by the states, for example. He is inclined to view favorably and encourage "mediating institutions", public but non- governmental corporations, like churches and charitable foundations and civic groups, from the Boy Scouts to the Kiwanis.
The conservative wants to see certain values honored: merit, honesty, trustworthiness, devotion to duty, among them. He would like to see a world where all take seriously their responsibilities, and can be counted on. Human beings may falter, but it is better to do one's best than to cynically turn one's back on standards of character and decorum.
I have tried to give an idea of what I think conservatism is. I am curious to see what comments are elicited....... |
