Is It Time for Conservatism to Evolve for Greater Relevance?

Commentary

The idea that old things are no longer relevant is a falsehood often perpetuated by the left and regrettably believed by many conservatives.

Back in 2015, Justin Trudeau, newly elected, made a statement that received media attention, where he justified his decision to have a gender-balanced cabinet by simply saying “Because it’s 2015.” This superficial response was emblematic of shallow Liberal coolness, devoid of substantive reasoning. It prioritized equality of outcome over merit, proportion, and experience.

The left’s tactic of dismissing the old to make room for the new is reminiscent of China in the 1960s, where the Communist Party aimed to eliminate the Four Olds: old customs, old culture, old habits, and old ideas. This approach disconnects individuals from their history, ancestors, and traditions, leaving them disoriented and vulnerable.

Conservatism, on the other hand, values the wisdom of the past and recognizes that profound questions have already been addressed by previous generations. The conservative views society as a continuum that includes the living, the dead, and the unborn. Disparaging the traditions and people of the past, particularly those who built our nations, is a misguided posture of the liberal-left movement.

Conservatism is about preserving the inherent goodness found in nature, human nature, family, society, law, and customs. It stands in contrast to progressive conservatism or other diluted versions that adopt leftist values.

Conservatism acknowledges that inequality and restrictions on freedom are inevitable in a society governed by basic laws. It recognizes certain social behaviors as more valuable than others, such as prioritizing reproductive heterosexual marriage over alternative relationships.

Identity politics is incompatible with conservatism, as engaging in debates about who is more feminist or who champions group rights better deviates from true conservatism. The conservative core appeals mostly to men but involves women as well, as they are drawn to conservative values.

It is crucial for conservatives to support young men and resist aligning with anti-male stances that hinder men’s progress. Men play a pivotal role in building civilization, while conservatism prioritizes family, order, morality, and male involvement.

Conservatism emphasizes the value of families, contrasting with left liberalism’s focus on women’s autonomy and needs. Fathers and children are often overlooked in this narrative, with conservative principles sometimes aligning with liberal views on parental roles.

To truly uphold conservatism, efforts should be made to address inequalities in workplaces and homes that disadvantage men. Additionally, reforms are needed to ensure fair treatment of fathers in family matters.

Conservatism is not about merely resisting current trends; it embodies enduring virtues like self-reliance, hope, and moral courage. It should be championed for its commitment to eternal truths and values. Those who do not seek to preserve the past should not claim to represent conservatism.

Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.