Authors: Lipset
Summary: This entry of about 3500 words defines conservatism, discusses the evolution of conservative thought and its modern interpretations, and analyzes the relationship between traditional conservatism and contemporary libertarianism.
Conservatism, according to the entry, is a democratic political philosophy favoring limited government and moderate change, and with much skepticism toward modern administrative and welfare states. The entry details some of the difficulties in defining conservatism, but lists those issues of fundamental significance to conservative theory. These issues include the balance between liberty and equality, the question of progress and history, and the democratic character.
The term conservatism originated in France during the 1830s, and referred to those unhappy with the French Revolution. The term also has conceptual roots in 17th century England, where it was used in reference to the Tory party. Tocqueville pointed out the fundamental conservative consensus in the United States, embodied in the American Constitution. He predicted very little partisan conflict due to ideological consensus. However, the entry points out that modern American political conflicts do erupt between individuals, often labelled 'liberal' or 'conservative,' who disagree on fairly fundamental issues. In general, modern conservatives believe in these principles: liberty over equality, capitalism, free enterprise, and limited government. The entry briefly introduces conservative partisan identifications and divisions.
Traditional conservatives and modern libertarians part company when it comes to issues like elitism, morality and religion. The libertarian is ideologically opposed to any state attempt to influence citizen character, while the traditional conservative believes the state must make moral policies that encourage certain citizen characteristics. In the end, however, both libertarians and more traditional conservatives see their role as guardians against state interference with individual liberty and the pursuit of individual happiness.