konservatism

Conservatism is a political and social philosophy that emphasizes preserving traditional social arrangements. It endorses gradual, incremental change rather than radical upheaval, arguing that social order is fragile and best maintained by institutions such as the family, religion, property, and the rule of law. Conservatives typically value continuity with the past, prudence in public policy, and a skepticism toward utopian schemes that presume perfect human rationality or social perfection. Moral and cultural traditions, national heritage, and established authority are often treated as sources of stability and identity.

Historical origins and variation: The modern articulation is associated with European thinkers such as Edmund Burke, who argued for cautious reform and respect for inherited institutions in reaction to the French Revolution. Conservatism diversified into strands including classical conservatism, traditionalist conservatism, Christian democracy, and liberal-conservative or conservative-liberal currents. In the United States and some other democracies, conservatism combines free-market economic policies with social conservatism and, in some factions, nationalist or libertarian tendencies.

Key ideas and debates: the importance of institutions, gradual reform, the rule of law, property rights, and a role for religion or non-state moral authority in public life; skepticism toward centralized planning and utopian social engineering. Critics argue it resists needed reforms and can perpetuate inequality; proponents counter that stability, tested institutions, and continuity are prerequisites for freedom and prosperity.