Why Can't a US Conservative Be Like a Conservative in Other Countries?

Conservative ideologies vary significantly across different regions and countries, and this variation is particularly notable when comparing the US conservative movement with its counterparts in other nations. This phenomenon has sparked much debate among scholars, political analysts, and casual observers alike. Let's delve into the reasons behind these differences and explore what sets US conservatives apart from their international counterparts.

Religious and Traditional Roots

In the United States, conservatives are often more religious and traditional compared to their counterparts in other developed nations. For instance, the influence of evangelical Christianity is a hallmark of the Republican Party, leading to a more rigid application of moral and social values. In contrast, while religious individuals and socially conservative people exist within the British and European conservative ranks, they are not as numerous or influential as they are in the US Republican Party. This difference is partly attributed to the cultural and historical context of each country, where the preservation of traditional values may carry greater weight in the former.

The Abominable Manifestation of Right-Wing Conservatism

The attempt to align conservative ideologies with the principles of peace, love, and understanding alongside free-market capitalism has given rise to a distorted and often criticized form of conservatism in the United States. Phrases like "Trumpism" have become synonymous with an extreme and often polarizing version of right-wing conservatism. This amalgamation has led to a political landscape that is both more radical and less cohesive, compared to its European counterparts who might lean more towards authoritarianism due to historical and cultural contexts.

Conservative Ideals vs. Liberal Principles

Conservatives in the US often embody the principles of conserving what is best from the past and innovating only when the benefits are clear and compelling. This aligns more closely with what used to be termed "liberals" in the US, who are often focused on the principles upon which the nation was founded—maximizing liberty and keeping government in check. However, in many other countries, conservatives tend to be more authoritarian, reflecting the conditions of their historical contexts. This fundamental difference in ideology is rooted in the unique historical, social, and political developments of each nation.

The Psychology Behind Political Ideologies

While conservatives and liberals differ in specific policy areas, their underlying psychology often varies across the globe. Studies have shown that conservatives tend to be more risk-averse, focusing more on the potential dangers of any life choice rather than its rewards. They value caution, cultural traditions, and social order. On the other hand, liberals may be more open to change and innovation. Both approaches can be beneficial, as society sometimes needs stability and other times requires progress. However, being too conservative or too liberal can be maladaptive, leading to reactionary or excessive thrill-seeking behaviors.

The Influence of Special Interests

The behavior of special interest groups further exacerbates the differences between US conservatives and their counterparts worldwide. For example, the tobacco, fossil fuel, and gun industries have utilized conservative rhetoric and fears to promote their own interests. The tobacco industry framed the debate on public health regulations as a matter of personal liberty against big government, while the fossil fuel industry turned the debate on climate change into a personal freedom vs. government regulation issue. These tactics not only exploit conservative psychology but also shift public opinion away from objective, scientific realities.

The Role of Political Influence

The unique political landscape in the US, where special interests can spend unlimited money in secret to influence elections, plays a significant role in amplifying these differences. This environment is unparalleled in democracies around the globe, aside from Russia. Such unchecked influence leads to a more polarized and ideologically driven political scene in the US, further distinguishing it from other nations.

Examples of Cultural Differences

Examples such as the stances on gun control, abortion, and other social issues highlight the stark contrasts between US conservatives and those in other countries. For instance, a conservative in Pakistan may support the murder of Muslims who become atheists, while an American conservative would likely not. Similarly, a conservative in Egypt might endorse female genital mutilation, while an American conservative would likely oppose issuing preteen daughters with HPV vaccinations. These stark differences underscore the unique cultural and historical contexts of each nation's political ideology.

In conclusion, while the underlying characteristics of conservatism and liberalism are universal, their expression and application vary significantly from one country to another. The political and social contexts of each nation shape the evolution and manifestation of conservative ideologies, leading to nuanced distinctions in the US compared to other regions. These differences reflect the complex interplay of history, culture, and special interests that have shaped American politics as we know it today.