Réactionnaire

The term *réactionnaire* originates from the French word *réaction*, meaning "reaction," and refers to individuals or movements that oppose progressive or liberal changes, advocating instead for a return to traditional values, institutions, or social structures. The concept emerged prominently during the French Revolution (1789–1799), when *réactionnaires* were those who sought to restore the monarchy and the Ancien Régime after its overthrow. They often represented conservative elites, the Catholic Church, and aristocratic interests opposed to revolutionary ideals such as democracy, secularism, and equality.

In broader political discourse, a *réactionnaire* stance typically involves resistance to social, political, or cultural shifts perceived as destabilizing or morally corrupting. This can include opposition to feminism, secularism, racial integration, or economic liberalism, depending on the historical and cultural context. *Réactionnaires* often emphasize tradition, hierarchy, and established authority as solutions to societal problems, contrasting with reformist or revolutionary approaches.

The term carries a pejorative connotation in many contexts, as it implies a rejection of progress in favor of a nostalgic or dogmatic return to the past. However, its meaning can vary: some conservatives distinguish themselves from *réactionnaires* by advocating gradual, pragmatic change rather than outright reversal of modern developments. Historically, *réactionnaire* movements have been associated with both political extremism and mainstream conservatism, depending on the degree of their opposition to prevailing trends.

Today, the term is occasionally used in debates about cultural or political shifts, particularly in discussions about identity, gender roles, or national identity, though its application remains contentious due to its loaded historical associations.