Editing Conservatism

Conservatism refers to a set of political ideologies and beliefs that prioritize [[tradition]], [[individualism|individual liberty]], and [[free markets]]. It often emphasizes the importance of limited [[government]] intervention in economic and social affairs, and it is often associated with [[capitalist]] and capitalist-oriented political agendas.

Conservatives view society as naturally [[hierarchical]], and they often defend the status quo, including traditional social structures and the existing distribution of [[wealth]] and power. This belief in the natural hierarchy of society is known as "[[Social Darwinism]]" where the strong should survive and the weak should be left behind.

Conservatives also tend to support [[free-market capitalism]] and [[laissez-faire]] economic policies, which prioritize [[individualism]] and [[competition]] over collective action and cooperation. This economic ideology is known as "[[neoliberalism]]" where the state should have minimal involvement in the economy, and individuals should be able to compete freely in the market.<ref>Harvey, D. (2005). A Brief History of Neoliberalism. New York: Oxford University Press.</ref>

In recent years, the conservative movement has been associated with [[right-wing]] [[populism]]. This has been seen in various countries where conservative politicians have been associated with [[racism|anti-immigrant]], [[homophobia|anti-LGBTQ+]] and [[sexism|anti-women policies]], which are seen as an attempt to maintain the status quo of traditional social structures and the existing distribution of wealth and power.

Conservatives also often oppose [[progressive]] social and economic policies that would redistribute [[wealth]] and power to [[marginalized groups]], such as [[workers]] and [[people of color]]. This opposition to progressive policies is an attempt to maintain the existing power structures and protect the interests of the [[ruling class]].<ref>Weber, M. (1978). Economy and Society. Berkeley: University of California Press.</ref>