Definition

1. Noun:
   • A political or philosophical orientation: Conservatism is an ideology that emphasizes preserving established traditions, institutions, and social norms. It advocates for cautious, gradual change and is generally skeptical of radical or revolutionary proposals.
   • A disposition to maintain existing conditions: It can also describe a general attitude of favoring the status quo and being hesitant to adopt new ideas or methods in various aspects of life, not just politics.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • His conservatism led him to oppose the rapid reforms proposed by the new government.
  • The party's platform is rooted in fiscal conservatism and social traditionalism.
  • Her artistic conservatism made her critical of the avant-garde movement.

Advanced Usage

• "Burkean conservatism": A strand of conservative thought named after philosopher Edmund Burke, emphasizing organic societal change, tradition, and the importance of inherited institutions.
  • The senator's arguments reflected the principles of Burkean conservatism.
• "Fiscal conservatism": A focus on prudent government spending, low taxes, and balanced budgets.
  • The mayor ran on a platform of fiscal conservatism.
• "Social conservatism": An emphasis on preserving traditional social institutions, values, and norms.
  • The debate often pits social liberalism against social conservatism.

Variants and Related Words

• Conservative (adj/noun): Favoring traditional views and values; tending to oppose change. A person who holds such views.
  • He has a conservative approach to investment.
  • The conservatives in parliament voted against the bill.
• Conservatively (adv): In a cautious, traditional, or moderate manner.
  • She dresses conservatively for work.

Synonyms

• Traditionalism: Adherence to tradition, especially in cultural or religious practice.
• Orthodoxy: Authorized or generally accepted theory, doctrine, or practice.
• Rightism: The political views or policies of the right wing.

Antonyms

• Progressivism: Support for or advocacy of social reform and new, liberal ideas.
• Radicalism: The beliefs or actions of people who advocate for thorough or complete political or social reform.
• Liberalism: A political and social philosophy promoting individual rights, civil liberties, and reform.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "The conservative wing": The faction within a group or party that favors traditional policies and resists change.
  • The conservative wing of the party blocked the proposed legislation.
• "A conservative estimate": A cautious estimate that is deliberately on the low side to avoid overstatement (note: this is a common usage of the adjective form, illustrating its broader meaning).
  • At a conservative estimate, the project will take six months.

Noun

1. a political or theological orientation advocating the preservation of the best in society and opposing radical changes