By – Arundhati Mathur
Conservatism, as a political and social philosophy, has long served as a stabilizing force in times of upheaval and transformation. Emerging in the late 18th century as a reaction to the radical ideas of the Enlightenment and the sweeping changes of the French Revolution, conservatism prioritizes tradition, stability, and incremental reform. Its core philosophy revolves around the preservation of societal institutions and the cautious evolution of structures that ensure order and continuity.
One of the earliest and most eloquent proponents of conservatism, Edmund Burke, articulated its essence in his seminal work, Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790). Burke argued for the preservation of inherited institutions and moral values, viewing them as the foundation of a stable and cohesive society. Unlike ideologies that advocate rapid change, conservatism embraces a gradual approach, respecting historical legacies while navigating modern challenges.
Despite its emphasis on tradition, conservatism has proven remarkably adaptable, evolving to meet the demands of diverse historical and cultural contexts. Over time, it has integrated elements of free-market economics, cultural identity, and religious principles. This adaptability has enabled it to remain relevant across centuries and continents. Today, conservatism is experiencing a global resurgence, reshaping political landscapes and societal norms in profound ways.
The Rise of Conservatism in the 21st Century
The 21st century has been marked by rapid globalization, technological disruption, and social transformations that have unsettled established norms. Against this backdrop, conservatism has reemerged as a potent force, offering a sense of stability and identity in an increasingly uncertain world. Across continents, conservative movements have evolved in response to unique cultural, economic, and political contexts, uniting around themes of tradition, nationalism, and scepticism of globalization.
In North America, populist conservatism has redefined political dynamics. Donald Trump’s presidency in the United States epitomized this shift, blending traditional conservative policies—such as tax cuts and deregulation—with populist critiques of globalization, immigration, and international trade deals. Trump’s “America First” agenda resonated deeply with a diverse coalition, uniting disillusioned working-class voters, rural communities, and traditional conservatives. In Canada, though the political culture remains more moderate, populist influences have grown, reflecting dissatisfaction with progressive policies and widening economic disparities.
In Europe, conservatism has gained traction through right-wing populist movements. Leaders like Marine Le Pen in France, Matteo Salvini in Italy, and Viktor Orbán in Hungary have capitalized on widespread fears of immigration, cultural erosion, and economic uncertainty. These leaders have positioned themselves as defenders of national sovereignty and cultural identity, challenging the liberal norms that underpin European Union integration. Orbán’s promotion of “illiberal democracy” and the rise of parties like Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) and Poland’s Law and Justice Party have intensified debates over the balance between nationalism and regional cooperation, reshaping the European political landscape.
In Asia, conservatism often intertwines with cultural and religious nationalism. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has advanced Hindu nationalist policies that emphasize the nation’s cultural heritage while implementing economic reforms that appeal to the burgeoning middle class. In Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has combined Islamic conservatism with centralized authority, portraying himself as a protector of traditional values against Western secularism. Even in communist China, Xi Jinping has embraced elements of social conservatism, promoting family values, nationalist rhetoric, and societal discipline to reinforce state authority amidst rapid modernization.
In Latin America, conservatism has found a new foothold in traditionally left-leaning nations. Leaders like Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil have combined evangelical religious conservatism with law-and-order policies, opposing progressive social reforms and capitalizing on widespread discontent with corruption and economic instability. Bolsonaro’s appeal to national pride and his tough stance on crime have resonated with voters seeking stability and moral clarity amidst societal upheaval.
Drivers of the Conservative Resurgence
The global resurgence of conservatism is rooted in a complex interplay of social, economic, and cultural factors. Globalization, while fostering unprecedented connectivity and economic growth, has also displaced industries, widened income inequalities, and eroded local identities. Many feel alienated by these changes, and conservative leaders have responded with protectionist policies, calls for national sovereignty, and critiques of international institutions perceived as undermining local control.
Immigration and demographic shifts have fuelled anxieties about cultural identity, prompting a surge of support for policies that preserve traditional values, national heritage, and social cohesion. In many societies, multiculturalism has sparked debates over integration and cultural preservation, with conservatives advocating for stricter immigration controls and the promotion of national identity.
Technological advancements, while driving innovation, have disrupted industries and reshaped societal norms, creating fears about job security, privacy, and the moral fabric of society. Conservatives have positioned themselves as protectors of stability, resisting perceived threats to established traditions and advocating policies that address these disruptions while preserving social order.
A growing distrust of political elites and institutions has also played a significant role in the rise of populist conservatism. Leaders who frame societal challenges as a struggle between “ordinary citizens” and a corrupt elite have gained traction, blending conservative rhetoric with nationalist and anti-establishment themes to broaden their appeal.
Cultural and Social Impacts
The resurgence of conservatism has had profound cultural and social ramifications. It has intensified polarization on contentious issues such as immigration, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights, as conservative leaders implement policies emphasizing law and order, tighten immigration controls, and reverse progressive social reforms.
The renewed prominence of religious identity has further shaped cultural debates, influencing policies on education, public morality, and secularism. By championing traditional family structures and community values, conservatism has provided a sense of belonging and moral clarity in an increasingly fragmented world. However, this emphasis has also deepened cultural divides, as societies grapple with the tension between tradition and modern liberal ideologies.
Conclusion
The rise of conservatism in the 21st century reflects its enduring appeal as a political and social philosophy that resonates deeply during times of uncertainty and change. By emphasizing tradition, national identity, and scepticism of globalization, conservatism has tapped into a collective yearning for stability and continuity. Yet, this resurgence also raises critical questions about the future of democracy, the potential rollback of progressive advancements, and the increasing polarization within societies.
As conservatism continues to adapt to evolving global challenges, it remains a pivotal force in shaping political discourse and policy. Its influence on modern politics underscores not only the resilience of its ideals but also the profound and lasting impact it has on the cultural and social fabric of nations worldwide. In an era of rapid transformation, conservatism’s call to honour the past while navigating the future ensures its place as a defining force in the trajectory of global politics.
References:-
https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/conservatism
https://www.econlib.org/conservatism-in-the-21st-century/?utm
https://hcspire.com/2023/12/01/the-rising-tide-of-western-conservatism/?utm