conservatism Definition
- 1a political philosophy or attitude that emphasizes respect for traditional institutions and opposes the attempt to achieve social change through legislation or publicly funded programs
- 2the holding of political views that favor free enterprise, private ownership, and socially conservative ideas
Using conservatism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "conservatism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
His conservatism made him oppose the new law.
Example
The party's platform is based on conservatism and free-market economics.
Example
She was raised in a family with strong conservatism values.
conservatism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for conservatism
- traditionalism
- reactionaryism
- rightism
Antonyms for conservatism
Phrases with conservatism
a form of conservatism that focuses on preserving traditional cultural values and norms
Example
Cultural conservatism is often associated with opposition to progressive social movements.
a form of conservatism that advocates for reduced government spending and lower taxes
Example
Fiscal conservatism is often associated with the Republican Party in the United States.
social conservatism
a form of conservatism that focuses on preserving traditional social norms and values
Example
Social conservatism is often associated with opposition to same-sex marriage and abortion.
Origins of conservatism
from Latin 'conservare', meaning 'to preserve'
Summary: conservatism in Brief
Conservatism [kuh n-sur-vuh-tiz-uhm] is a political philosophy that emphasizes respect for traditional institutions and opposes social change through legislation or publicly funded programs. It favors free enterprise, private ownership, and socially conservative ideas. Examples include 'His conservatism made him oppose the new law' and 'The party's platform is based on conservatism and free-market economics.' Conservatism extends into phrases like 'cultural conservatism,' 'fiscal conservatism,' and 'social conservatism,' each emphasizing different aspects of traditional values.
