Conservative political thought has evolved over time, branching into various strands. Classical conservatism emphasizes tradition and gradual change, while fiscal conservatism advocates for limited government spending and free market principles.

Social and religious conservatism focus on preserving traditional values and integrating religious beliefs into politics. Neoconservatism supports interventionist foreign policy, while paleoconservatism emphasizes nationalism and isolationism. These diverse perspectives shape modern conservative ideology.

Classical and Fiscal Conservatism

Classical Conservatism

• Emphasizes tradition, established institutions, and social stability
• Believes in gradual change and reform rather than radical upheaval
• Supports a strong state to maintain order and hierarchy (Edmund Burke)
• Values the wisdom of past generations and the organic nature of society
• Skeptical of abstract theories and utopian ideals (French Revolution)

Fiscal Conservatism

• Advocates for limited government spending, low taxes, and balanced budgets
• Believes in free market principles and minimal government intervention in the economy
• Supports deregulation, privatization, and reducing the size of the public sector
• Emphasizes individual responsibility and self-reliance over government assistance
• Argues that lower taxes incentivize investment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth

Libertarian Conservatism

• Combines classical liberal principles with conservative values
• Prioritizes individual liberty, private property rights, and the rule of law
• Supports a minimal state focused on protecting individual rights and national defense
• Advocates for free trade, open borders, and a non-interventionist foreign policy
• Opposes government interference in personal and economic affairs (drug prohibition, gun control)

Social and Religious Conservatism

Social Conservatism

• Seeks to preserve traditional moral values and social norms
• Opposes progressive social changes such as same-sex marriage and abortion rights
• Believes in the importance of the traditional family structure and gender roles
• Supports strict law enforcement and tough penalties for crime
• Emphasizes personal responsibility, self-discipline, and respect for authority

Religious Conservatism

• Integrates religious beliefs and values into political ideology
• Advocates for the role of religion in public life and decision-making
• Supports policies that align with religious teachings (school prayer, creationism)
• Opposes secularization and the separation of church and state
• Believes in the moral authority of religious institutions and leaders

Compassionate Conservatism

• Combines conservative principles with a concern for social welfare
• Advocates for government support for faith-based and community organizations
• Supports targeted assistance for the poor, elderly, and disadvantaged
• Emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and self-help
• Believes in the power of civil society to address social problems (private charities, volunteerism)

Neoconservatism and Paleoconservatism

Neoconservatism

• Emerged in the 1960s among former liberals who embraced conservative ideas
• Supports a robust and interventionist foreign policy to promote democracy and American interests
• Advocates for the use of military force to confront threats and spread liberal values
• Believes in the importance of a strong national defense and the global leadership role of the US
• Supports free market economics and limited government intervention in domestic affairs

Paleoconservatism

• Emphasizes traditional conservative values, nationalism, and isolationism
• Opposes globalization, multiculturalism, and immigration as threats to national identity
• Supports trade protectionism and economic nationalism to preserve domestic industries
• Advocates for a non-interventionist foreign policy and skepticism of international organizations
• Believes in the importance of preserving Western culture and heritage

National Conservatism

• Combines conservative social and economic policies with a strong emphasis on national sovereignty
• Supports strict immigration controls and the preservation of national identity and culture
• Advocates for economic policies that prioritize national interests over global free trade
• Believes in the importance of national security and a robust defense capability
• Opposes supranational organizations and agreements that limit national autonomy (European Union, United Nations)