Traditional conservatism rests on core principles that shape its worldview. These include valuing tradition as a source of wisdom, seeing hierarchy as natural, and viewing authority as a stabilizing force. Conservatives also emphasize the importance of moral order and property rights.

Economically and politically, traditional conservatives advocate for limited government and are skeptical of rapid change. Socially, they prioritize stability and recognize human imperfection. These principles form the foundation of conservative thought and its critique of revolutionary ideas.

Foundational Principles

Tradition as a Source of Wisdom

• Tradition represents accumulated wisdom and experience passed down through generations
• Provides a framework for social and political order that has been tested over time
• Serves as a guide for individuals and society, helping to maintain stability and continuity
• Encompasses customs, practices, and institutions that have proven their worth and value

Hierarchy as a Natural and Necessary Structure

• Hierarchy is an inherent aspect of human society, reflecting natural differences in abilities, talents, and virtues
• Provides a structure for social organization and the distribution of power and responsibility
• Enables the effective functioning of society by assigning roles and duties based on merit and capability
• Recognizes the importance of leadership and the need for individuals to fulfill their proper roles within the social order

Authority as a Stabilizing Force

• Authority is essential for maintaining order, stability, and the smooth functioning of society
• Legitimate authority, derived from tradition, custom, and established institutions, helps to prevent chaos and disorder
• Respect for authority is necessary for the preservation of social harmony and the adherence to shared values and norms
• Authority figures, such as monarchs, aristocrats, and religious leaders, play a crucial role in guiding and governing society

Moral Order as a Foundation for Society

• Moral order refers to the shared values, beliefs, and principles that underpin a well-functioning society
• Provides a common framework for understanding right and wrong, guiding individual behavior and social interactions
• Rooted in tradition, religion, and the accumulated wisdom of past generations
• Emphasizes the importance of virtue, duty, and the cultivation of good character as essential for the maintenance of social order

Economic and Political Principles

Property Rights as a Cornerstone of Liberty

• Property rights are essential for individual liberty and the protection of personal interests
• Provide a basis for economic stability and the efficient allocation of resources
• Enable individuals to secure the fruits of their labor and to plan for the future with confidence
• Serve as a bulwark against arbitrary government intervention and the abuse of power

Limited Government as a Safeguard Against Tyranny

• Limited government is necessary to prevent the concentration of power and the potential for tyranny
• Emphasizes the importance of checks and balances, the separation of powers, and the rule of law
• Recognizes the inherent dangers of unconstrained government power and the need for restraint
• Seeks to preserve individual liberty by limiting the scope and reach of government intervention in society

Skepticism of Change as a Cautionary Principle

• Skepticism of change reflects a cautious approach to social and political reform
• Recognizes the potential risks and unintended consequences of radical or sweeping changes to established institutions and practices
• Emphasizes the need for gradual, incremental change that builds upon existing traditions and norms
• Encourages a careful consideration of the costs and benefits of proposed reforms, taking into account the complexity of human society

Social Principles

Social Stability as a Fundamental Goal

• Social stability is essential for the well-being and flourishing of individuals and communities
• Provides a sense of security, predictability, and continuity that enables people to plan for the future and pursue their goals
• Reduces the likelihood of social upheaval, violence, and disorder, which can threaten the fabric of society
• Emphasizes the importance of shared values, strong institutions, and the maintenance of social cohesion

Human Imperfection as a Realistic Assessment

• Human imperfection acknowledges the flawed and fallible nature of human beings
• Recognizes the limitations of human reason and the potential for error, selfishness, and the abuse of power
• Emphasizes the need for humility, restraint, and the recognition of human frailties in the design of social and political institutions
• Encourages a realistic assessment of human nature and the need for checks and balances to mitigate the effects of human imperfection