A healthy and deep conservatism: not so different from healthy and deep progressiveism

I am curious about a healthy and deep conservatism.

What are the characteristics of this more essential form of conservatism?

WHAT IS IT NOT

First, what it is not?

For me, it’s not Trump’s version of conservatism. He is not conservative. He is a nationalist populist.

It’s not the version of conservatism that’s reactionary, bigoted, and anti-science.

It’s not the version of conservatism that is narrow-mindedly out to protect the privilege of the already privileged and idealizes a past that worked for some and didn’t work for many.

It’s not the version of conservatism that’s neo-liberal and in the pocket of big business and big money, and wants to continue to funnel money, resources, and power to the already wealthy at the cost of everyone else.

For me, these are all caricatures and corruptions of conservatism. They are, at best, shallow forms of conservatism.

THE ESSENCE OF A HEALTHY AND DEEP CONSERVATISM

What’s the essence of a healthy and deep conservatism?

For me, it is to…

Support life, all of life, this living planet, and the web of life we all are part of.

Keep future generations in mind and give them the best chance of a good and fulfilling life. It comes from a deep-time perspective.

Respect and follow science while knowing that the content of science always changes with new knowledge and understanding.

See the sacred in all life, in everyone and everything.

Support and strengthen indigenous cultures and languages, and learn from their knowledge and perspectives.

Include and support minorities and the weakest in society. These groups have valuable perspectives and knowledge that enriches and benefits society as a whole.

Support good social safety nets. This is humane and creates a more stable and safe society for everyone.

Strengthens local communities. We need healthy communities and strong community ties to flourish as individuals, families, and humanity.

Recognize that stories are questions about the world. (That includes any religious texts and stories.)

A HEALTHIER VERSION OF CONSERVATISM

For me, this is a healthier version of conservatism.

It’s a conservatism that’s more fundamentally life-centered.

It’s a conservatism that wishes to protect what’s most valuable to us, which is life itself.

DEEP CONSERVATISM

This is deep conservatism.

Much of what goes for conservatism in the world today is superficial. It’s short-sighted, bigoted, out to protect the interests of the privileged, and so on.

What I outline above is a deeper and more real form of conservatism, as I see it. It reflects a deeper and more genuinely life-centered essence of conservatism.

WHEN DEEPLY LIFE-CENTERED, LEFT AND RIGHT CONVERGE

When we are grounded in a deep time and big picture orientation and are life-centered, the progressive and conservative converge. Something deeper ties us together. The flavor and emphasis may be slightly different, but the essence – the goals, views, considerations, and priorities – are largely the same.

That’s why I love deep time and big picture views, systems views, integral approaches, and so on. They work whether we have a progressive or conservative orientation. They bring us together, as long as we leave behind the superficial versions of these and find what’s more real and important.

When healthy and deep, left and right converge because they are healthy and deep.

A GREEN ORIENTATION INCLUDES THE PROGRESSIVE AND CONSERVATIVE

This is why a green political orientation often includes elements from both left and right.

From a deeper and more life-centered perspective, both are included and embraced.

It’s about what’s healthy and deep, not so much about what’s left and right.

A PERSONAL NOTE

I see myself as conservative in an essential way, as outlined above, although most people who know me would not label me as conservative in a conventional sense.

So why do I explore this? It’s because I know I have a conservative side and I want to explore how a healthy conservatism can look. I want to embrace and include that side of me too.

I also know that this definition of conservatism may piss off many conservatives and liberals, and a part of me enjoys that, especially since I genuinely see this as a healthy version of deep conservatism.

I feel it’s important to speak up for this version of conservatism.

It’s also important to see that when healthy and deep, left and right are flavors of that more healthy and deep orientation.

MORE INFO

After writing this, I asked ChatGPT 4o for input on some of these themes. See below.

Real Conservatism: Embracing Change in the Context of Global Ecological Overshoot

True conservatism is often misunderstood as an ideology opposed to change. However, at its essence, conservatism is about thoughtful stewardship, the preservation of life-supporting systems, and the careful adaptation to new realities. In the face of global ecological overshoot—where humanity’s consumption exceeds the planet’s capacity to regenerate—real conservatism not only supports change but demands it. This form of conservatism recognizes that preserving life and continuity requires proactive and transformative action.

The Conservative Mandate to Address Ecological Overshoot
Ecological overshoot represents an existential challenge to humanity and the biosphere. It threatens the very systems that sustain life: clean air, water, fertile soil, and biodiversity. Real conservatism sees this as a call to action, rooted in its core principles of preservation, long-term thinking, and responsibility for future generations.

• Conserving the Earth’s natural systems is a moral imperative. Without healthy ecosystems, the traditions, cultures, and institutions conservatives seek to protect cannot endure.
• Acting to address overshoot aligns with the conservative emphasis on prudence and foresight, as inaction would lead to collapse and chaos—antithetical to conservative values of stability and continuity.

Adapting Traditions to New Realities
Real conservatism honors traditions while recognizing the need to adapt them to new ecological realities. Global ecological overshoot requires rethinking long-standing practices in light of their impact on the planet and future generations.

• Examples:
  • Agricultural traditions can evolve by adopting regenerative practices, such as agroforestry and permaculture, which restore ecosystems while supporting food production.
  • Cultural traditions that rely on unsustainable resource use can be adapted to reflect modern ecological understanding while maintaining their symbolic significance.

This approach ensures that traditions remain relevant and life-supporting, preserving their core values while responding to the urgent demands of the present.

Embracing Science and Innovation
Conservatism values empirical knowledge and cautious innovation, both of which are essential in addressing ecological overshoot. Real conservatism embraces scientific insights into the planet’s limits and uses them to inform policy and action.

• Examples:
  • Supporting renewable energy technologies as a way to transition from fossil fuels while safeguarding energy security.
  • Using ecological research to guide land-use planning, ensuring that development minimizes harm to ecosystems and biodiversity.

By integrating science into its framework, conservatism ensures that changes are grounded in evidence and guided by practicality.

Stewardship and Long-Term Thinking
At the heart of conservatism is the principle of stewardship: the responsibility to care for what sustains life and pass it on to future generations. This long-term perspective is crucial in addressing ecological overshoot.

• Examples:
  • Advocating for policies that prioritize resource conservation, such as water management, forest preservation, and sustainable fisheries.
  • Supporting education and initiatives that foster a culture of responsibility and awareness about humanity’s dependence on the planet.

Real conservatism sees the health of the Earth’s systems as a trust to be safeguarded, not a resource to be exploited recklessly.

Change as Preservation
Conservatism understands that preserving what is vital often requires transformation. In the context of ecological overshoot, this means embracing systemic changes to avoid irreversible damage to the planet.

• Examples:
  • Transitioning economies from growth-based models to those focused on well-being and sustainability.
  • Encouraging lifestyle shifts, such as reducing waste, embracing simplicity, and valuing quality over quantity.

These changes are not about abandoning the past but ensuring that the systems, values, and traditions that matter most can endure in a new ecological reality.

A Global Perspective with Local Action
Global ecological overshoot is a universal challenge, but real conservatism emphasizes localism and subsidiarity—addressing issues at the most immediate and effective level. This approach combines global awareness with local responsibility.

• Examples:
  • Communities adopting localized food systems to reduce dependence on industrial agriculture and transportation.
  • Nations collaborating on international agreements like the Paris Climate Accord while empowering local governments to implement solutions tailored to their regions.

Real conservatism balances global cooperation with local autonomy, ensuring that solutions are both effective and context-sensitive.

Conclusion: Conservatism as a Catalyst for Sustainable Change
Real conservatism, rooted in its principles of preservation, stewardship, and long-term thinking, is uniquely positioned to address global ecological overshoot. By embracing change as a means of protecting life, nature, and cultural heritage, it transcends its stereotype as resistant to progress. Instead, it becomes a guiding philosophy for thoughtful adaptation and sustainability. In the face of ecological crises, conservatism’s true essence shines: a deep commitment to preserving the conditions that make life and civilization possible for generations to come.

Deep Conservatism: A Life-Centered Philosophy Rooted in Reverence

Deep conservatism is a profound and life-centered philosophy that goes beyond political ideology. It embraces a deep respect for all forms of life, acknowledges humanity’s interconnectedness with nature, and values the wisdom of deep time perspectives. Rooted in the sacredness of existence, deep conservatism seeks to preserve and honor the systems, traditions, and relationships that sustain life, culture, and the planet itself.

Deeply Life-Centered
At its core, deep conservatism is centered on the flourishing of life. It recognizes that all beings, human and non-human, are interconnected within the web of existence. Life is not merely something to be managed or exploited but something to be celebrated, nurtured, and protected.

• It supports biodiversity as a cornerstone of planetary health, understanding that the richness of life ensures resilience for all.
• It values practices and policies that promote the regeneration of ecosystems, such as rewilding, organic farming, and permaculture.
• It sees humanity’s role as one of stewardship, not dominance, ensuring that our actions align with the continuation of life for generations to come.

A Deep Time Perspective
Deep conservatism operates with a long view, embracing the perspective of deep time. It sees humanity as part of an ongoing evolutionary story, shaped by billions of years of interconnected processes, and it considers the impact of present actions on far-distant futures.

• It respects the wisdom embedded in traditions and ecosystems, understanding that they often reflect long-term adaptation and survival strategies.
• It prioritizes sustainability, knowing that decisions made today will echo through generations to come.
• It acknowledges humanity’s place within a much larger context, honoring the planet’s age-old rhythms and cycles.

Seeing the Sacred in Everyone and Everything
Deep conservatism is rooted in a spiritual awareness that sees the sacredness of all existence. It recognizes that every being, ecosystem, and tradition carries intrinsic value, deserving of respect and care.

• It honors the spiritual wisdom of diverse cultures, particularly indigenous traditions that view life and nature as interconnected and sacred.
• It promotes policies and practices that reflect reverence for life, from ecological conservation to compassionate social systems.
• It fosters a sense of humility, recognizing that humanity is not the pinnacle of creation but one thread in the vast tapestry of existence.

Honoring Relationships and Interconnection
Deep conservatism values relationships, understanding that thriving systems—whether ecological, social, or cultural—are built on interdependence and collaboration. It emphasizes the importance of fostering healthy connections at every level.

• It supports community-driven initiatives that strengthen social bonds and encourage collective action.
• It values the interconnectedness of global systems, promoting cooperation to address shared challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss.
• It encourages practices that restore balance in relationships, from regenerative agriculture to conflict resolution rooted in mutual understanding.

Preserving Wisdom While Embracing Change
Deep conservatism holds that traditions and institutions carry the distilled wisdom of generations. Yet, it also acknowledges the need for these systems to adapt when they no longer serve life or justice.

• It seeks to preserve cultural heritage, languages, and knowledge systems while integrating them with contemporary insights.
• It values incremental, thoughtful change that builds on the foundation of past successes rather than rejecting them outright.
• It embraces innovation that aligns with life-centered values, such as renewable energy, sustainable design, and equitable economic systems.

Reverence for Nature and Ecospirituality
Deep conservatism is deeply aligned with ecospirituality, which sees the natural world as sacred and inseparable from the human experience. It recognizes that humanity’s well-being is intertwined with the health of the planet.

• It advocates for living in harmony with nature, restoring ecosystems, and reducing humanity’s ecological footprint.
• It fosters practices that deepen the human connection to the Earth, such as nature-based rituals, environmental education, and immersive experiences in the wild.
• It views ecological conservation not just as a pragmatic necessity but as a moral and spiritual responsibility.

Commitment to the Common Good
Deep conservatism sees the well-being of all as interconnected. It emphasizes justice, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that systems benefit the many rather than the few. It values collective responsibility and seeks to uplift the vulnerable.

• It supports policies that address social and ecological inequities, ensuring that all communities thrive.
• It encourages shared stewardship of resources, promoting cooperation over competition.
• It values the inclusion of marginalized voices, recognizing that diverse perspectives enrich collective wisdom.

Conclusion: A Conservatism Rooted in Reverence
Deep conservatism is a philosophy of profound respect for life, time, and interconnectedness. It is guided by the sacredness of existence, the wisdom of tradition, and the necessity of adaptation. By fostering reverence for all forms of life and prioritizing long-term sustainability, deep conservatism offers a vision for a world that is both enduring and life-affirming. It is not a resistance to change but a commitment to preserving what is most vital and sacred as humanity navigates an evolving and interconnected future.

Representatives of Deep and Life-Centered Conservatism Across Time and Cultures

Deep and life-centered conservatism transcends political boundaries and is reflected in individuals, movements, and philosophies that prioritize the preservation of life, culture, and the interconnectedness of all beings. This form of conservatism values stewardship, long-term thinking, and a profound respect for tradition and nature while remaining adaptable to change. Throughout history, across diverse cultures, many have embodied these principles in their leadership, philosophies, and actions.

1. Indigenous Elders and Wisdom Keepers
Indigenous leaders and elders worldwide have long exemplified life-centered conservatism, rooted in deep ecological and cultural awareness. Their practices often reflect a profound respect for the interconnectedness of life and the need for sustainable stewardship.

• Examples:
  • Chief Seattle (Suquamish and Duwamish, 19th century): Famous for his speech about the sacredness of the Earth, Chief Seattle emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, advocating for respectful and sustainable use of the land.
  • Winona LaDuke (Ojibwe, contemporary): A Native American activist and economist, LaDuke fights for indigenous land rights, food sovereignty, and environmental justice, embodying a deep conservatism that integrates culture, ecology, and long-term sustainability.

2. Conservationist Thinkers and Environmental Stewards
Environmentalists who champion the preservation of nature as a sacred trust embody deep conservatism by recognizing humanity’s dependence on healthy ecosystems and the need to preserve them for future generations.

• Examples:
  • Aldo Leopold (United States, 20th century): The author of A Sand County Almanac, Leopold’s concept of the “land ethic” calls for seeing humans as part of an interconnected ecological community, advocating for stewardship and respect for all life.
  • Wangari Maathai (Kenya, 20th–21st century): Founder of the Green Belt Movement, Maathai integrated environmental conservation with women’s empowerment, reforesting Kenya while preserving cultural and ecological systems.

3. Philosophers of Long-Term Thinking and Interconnectedness
Deep conservatism finds expression in thinkers who emphasize the importance of continuity, tradition, and humanity’s role within the larger web of existence.

• Examples:
  • Edmund Burke (United Kingdom, 18th century): Often considered the father of modern conservatism, Burke’s emphasis on tradition, community, and gradual change reflects a deep respect for the social and cultural systems that sustain life.
  • Confucius (China, 6th century BCE): The teachings of Confucius stress harmony, respect for traditions, and the cultivation of virtues that preserve familial and societal stability across generations.

4. Religious Leaders and Mystics
Religious figures who integrate spiritual awareness with care for creation and humanity often embody this life-centered conservatism, viewing the sacred as present in all aspects of life.

• Examples:
  • Saint Francis of Assisi (Italy, 12th–13th century): Known for his profound connection to nature, Saint Francis saw all living beings as part of a divine creation, inspiring environmental and spiritual movements centered on care for life.
  • Dalai Lama (Tibet, contemporary): A spiritual leader advocating for compassion, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation, the Dalai Lama embodies a conservatism that is both deeply spiritual and globally inclusive.

5. Cultural Preservationists and Advocates of Localism
Cultural leaders who seek to preserve traditions, languages, and heritage while integrating them with contemporary life represent deep conservatism’s emphasis on continuity and adaptability.

• Examples:
  • Tetsuro Watsuji (Japan, 20th century): A philosopher who explored the balance between individual and collective well-being, Watsuji emphasized the importance of cultural and environmental continuity in shaping human identity.
  • Ng?g? wa Thiong’o (Kenya, contemporary): A writer and scholar advocating for the preservation of indigenous languages and cultural heritage, Ng?g? connects the survival of traditions with the resilience of communities.

6. Social Reformers Rooted in Tradition
Reformers who draw on traditional values to address contemporary challenges exemplify deep conservatism by preserving the essence of tradition while adapting it to new contexts.

• Examples:
  • Mahatma Gandhi (India, 20th century): Gandhi’s philosophy of Swaraj (self-rule) emphasized simplicity, sustainability, and the preservation of Indian traditions while addressing colonial oppression and modern challenges.
  • Jane Addams (United States, 19th–20th century): A social reformer who championed community welfare, Addams combined traditional values of service and charity with innovative approaches to address urban poverty and inequality.

7. Visionaries in Economic and Social Systems
Those who advocate for systemic changes to align economies and societies with life-centered principles reflect deep conservatism’s commitment to long-term stability and the common good.

• Examples:
  • E.F. Schumacher (United Kingdom, 20th century): Author of Small Is Beautiful, Schumacher advocated for “economics as if people mattered,” focusing on sustainability, localism, and human well-being over profit.
  • Elinor Ostrom (United States, 20th–21st century): An economist who studied how communities sustainably manage shared resources, Ostrom emphasized cooperative systems rooted in local traditions and practices.

8. Indigenous and Grassroots Movements Worldwide
Movements that arise from a deep connection to the land, culture, and community often embody life-centered conservatism by preserving traditional wisdom while addressing modern challenges.

• Examples:
  • Zapatista Movement (Mexico, contemporary): Centered on indigenous autonomy and environmental justice, the Zapatistas integrate traditional values with modern calls for equality and sustainability.
  • Landcare Movement (Australia, contemporary): A grassroots conservation movement that empowers local communities to restore and preserve their land, integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary science.

Conclusion: A Universal Philosophy of Care and Stewardship
Deep and life-centered conservatism is not confined to one time or culture. It is a universal philosophy that values the preservation of life, culture, and ecological balance. From indigenous elders and environmentalists to spiritual leaders and philosophers, those who embody this form of conservatism share a profound respect for interconnectedness, long-term thinking, and the sacredness of existence. Their work reminds us that true conservatism is not about resisting change but about preserving and nurturing what sustains life in its fullest and most meaningful forms.

The Convergence of Healthy Progressivism and Healthy Conservatism

At their healthiest, progressivism and conservatism share striking similarities when rooted in deep time, big-picture perspectives, and a profound life-centered orientation. Both philosophies, when stripped of polarization and shallow interpretations, seek to sustain and enhance the systems that nurture life, culture, and meaning. They diverge in emphasis—progressivism often focusing on innovation and reform, conservatism on preservation and continuity—but they converge in their commitment to the well-being of humanity and the planet.

Deep Time Perspectives: Learning from the Past, Shaping the Future
Healthy conservatism and progressivism recognize humanity’s place within the vast timeline of history and evolution. Both draw on the wisdom of the past to guide actions that benefit future generations.

• Conservatism’s Approach: Conservatism emphasizes the value of traditions and systems that have endured over time, reflecting the accumulated wisdom of countless generations. It seeks to preserve these legacies while adapting them thoughtfully to current needs.
• Progressivism’s Approach: Progressivism builds on lessons from history to create systems that address present inequities and anticipate future challenges. It acknowledges the failures of the past to chart new, more inclusive paths forward.
• Shared Ground: Both philosophies value long-term thinking. Conservatism asks, “How do we ensure continuity?” while progressivism asks, “How do we improve upon what has come before?” Together, they prioritize decisions that honor the past while ensuring a thriving future.

Big-Picture Thinking: Interconnected Systems and Global Perspectives
Both progressivism and conservatism, when healthy, embrace a big-picture understanding of the world. They see humanity as part of larger ecological, social, and cultural systems, and they value actions that consider wide-reaching impacts.

• Conservatism’s Approach: Conservatism understands the interconnectedness of traditions, institutions, and ecosystems. It seeks to preserve the stability of these systems by maintaining balance and continuity.
• Progressivism’s Approach: Progressivism sees the need to reform systems that are no longer equitable or sustainable. It works to address global challenges, such as climate change and social justice, through innovative and collaborative solutions.
• Shared Ground: Both philosophies reject short-termism. Conservatism warns against reckless disruption, while progressivism critiques stagnation. Together, they emphasize the importance of considering the ripple effects of decisions across time and systems.

A Life-Centered Orientation: Protecting and Nurturing Life
At their core, healthy conservatism and progressivism are both deeply life-centered. They prioritize the well-being of humanity, other species, and the ecosystems that sustain all life.

• Conservatism’s Approach: Conservatism embodies stewardship, emphasizing the care of land, culture, and traditions as sacred trusts to be passed on to future generations. It values stability and sustainability as foundations for thriving communities.
• Progressivism’s Approach: Progressivism champions equity and innovation, striving to create systems that uplift marginalized voices, address ecological harm, and ensure access to resources for all.
• Shared Ground: Both recognize the sacredness of life and the need to protect it. Conservatism seeks to nurture existing systems that sustain life, while progressivism pushes for new systems where current ones fall short. Together, they advocate for humanity’s role as stewards of a shared world.

Environmental Stewardship: A Shared Priority
The health of the planet is central to both philosophies when they operate from a life-centered perspective. Healthy conservatism and progressivism converge in their recognition of humanity’s dependence on nature and the urgent need to protect it.

• Conservatism’s Approach: Conservatism calls for preserving natural resources and ecosystems as a moral responsibility, respecting the rhythms of nature and the wisdom of traditional practices.
• Progressivism’s Approach: Progressivism seeks to address environmental degradation through innovation, advocating for renewable energy, ecological restoration, and systemic reforms to mitigate climate change.
• Shared Ground: Both prioritize sustainability. Conservatism values the long-term health of natural systems, while progressivism emphasizes transformative action to heal and protect the environment.

Cultural Preservation and Innovation
Healthy conservatism and progressivism share a commitment to cultural flourishing, though they approach it from different angles.

• Conservatism’s Approach: Conservatism values the preservation of cultural heritage, languages, and traditions as anchors of identity and continuity. It seeks to honor the past while fostering intergenerational connection.
• Progressivism’s Approach: Progressivism supports cultural evolution, advocating for the inclusion of marginalized voices and the blending of traditions with modern realities. It seeks to create dynamic, living cultures that reflect the diversity of human experience.
• Shared Ground: Both recognize the importance of culture in shaping human life. Conservatism ensures that valuable traditions are not lost, while progressivism ensures that they remain adaptable and inclusive.

Moral and Ethical Foundations
Both philosophies, when deeply rooted, operate from a shared moral and ethical grounding that values justice, compassion, and responsibility.

• Conservatism’s Approach: Conservatism emphasizes moral responsibility and virtue, advocating for the cultivation of character and the upholding of ethical traditions that promote societal cohesion.
• Progressivism’s Approach: Progressivism focuses on systemic justice, advocating for policies and practices that address inequality, protect rights, and foster collective well-being.
• Shared Ground: Both strive to create societies that reflect shared ethical values. Conservatism emphasizes individual and communal responsibility, while progressivism ensures that systems are just and equitable.

Conclusion: Complementary Forces for a Thriving World
When operating from deep time, big-picture perspectives, and a life-centered orientation, healthy conservatism and progressivism are not oppositional but complementary. Conservatism anchors humanity in the wisdom of the past, ensuring stability and continuity, while progressivism propels humanity forward, addressing inequities and embracing innovation. Together, they provide a balanced approach to nurturing life, preserving what is essential, and evolving toward a more inclusive and sustainable future. By embracing their shared values and recognizing their interconnected goals, these philosophies can work in harmony to create a world that honors both the past and the potential of the future.

A Deeply Green Orientation: Embracing Elements from Both the Left and the Right

A deeply green orientation transcends traditional political divisions, integrating elements from both the left and the right to address the profound ecological and social challenges of our time. This perspective acknowledges that effective solutions to environmental and societal issues require collaboration, inclusivity, and the wisdom inherent in diverse approaches. It is rooted in a life-centered philosophy that values balance, interconnectedness, and long-term thinking.

Shared Ground: The Interconnection of Humanity and Nature
At its core, a green orientation prioritizes the health and well-being of the planet and all its inhabitants. This shared commitment creates a natural bridge between progressive and conservative values.

• From the left, it draws on the emphasis on equity, systemic reform, and collective action to address the root causes of environmental degradation.
• From the right, it incorporates respect for tradition, stewardship, and the preservation of life-sustaining systems.

By integrating these perspectives, a green orientation fosters a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human and ecological systems.

From the Left: Equity, Justice, and Collective Action
Progressive ideals contribute essential elements to a deeply green orientation, emphasizing the need for systemic transformation to create a just and sustainable world.

• Environmental Justice: The green orientation incorporates the left’s focus on addressing inequities, ensuring that marginalized communities—often most affected by environmental harm—are empowered and protected.
• Collective Responsibility: Progressives’ emphasis on collective action informs green initiatives, encouraging communities, nations, and global organizations to collaborate on solutions to climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
• Systemic Reform: Green thinking aligns with the left’s push for systemic change, advocating for shifts in energy, agriculture, and economic systems to prioritize sustainability over short-term profit.

From the Right: Tradition, Stewardship, and Long-Term Thinking
Conservative values bring equally vital contributions to a deeply green orientation, emphasizing continuity, responsibility, and care for what sustains life.

• Stewardship of the Earth: The conservative principle of stewardship aligns with green ideals, viewing humanity as caretakers of the planet who must protect its resources for future generations.
• Preservation of Traditions: A green orientation respects traditional ecological knowledge, including indigenous practices and local wisdom, recognizing their role in sustainable living.
• Long-Term Stability: Conservatives’ focus on long-term thinking and caution against hasty changes complements green efforts to create enduring systems that respect planetary boundaries.

Ecological Integration: Beyond Political Boundaries
A deeply green orientation acknowledges that environmental issues are not confined to political ideologies. Nature operates as a complex, interconnected system, requiring approaches that draw on diverse perspectives.

• Economic Models: From the left, it adopts principles of equity and access, ensuring resources are shared fairly. From the right, it values fiscal responsibility and efficient use of resources to create resilient economies.
• Community and Localism: Progressives champion grassroots movements and inclusive participation, while conservatives emphasize local governance and the preservation of cultural identity. Both align with the green emphasis on empowering communities to steward their environments.
• Innovation and Tradition: The left’s embrace of technological and social innovation complements the right’s respect for time-tested practices, creating a dynamic balance between progress and preservation.

Examples of Green Collaboration

• Regenerative Agriculture: Combines progressive calls for social equity in farming with conservative respect for traditional practices and land stewardship.
• Renewable Energy Transition: Balances progressive advocacy for innovation and public investment with conservative principles of energy independence and local solutions.
• Ecological Restoration: Aligns the left’s emphasis on biodiversity and inclusivity with the right’s focus on preserving landscapes and ecosystems for future generations.

A Holistic Vision: Bridging the Divide
A deeply green orientation sees political ideologies not as opposing forces but as complementary perspectives that can enrich ecological solutions. It recognizes that:

• The left’s focus on justice and equity ensures that environmental efforts benefit all, particularly those most vulnerable.
• The right’s emphasis on stability and stewardship ensures that these efforts are grounded in continuity and respect for existing systems.
• Together, they create a balanced approach that addresses immediate needs while safeguarding the future.

Conclusion: Toward a Unified Green Ethic
A deeply green orientation transcends the divisions of left and right, weaving together their strengths into a unified ethic of care for life. By embracing equity and justice alongside tradition and stewardship, it creates a holistic framework for addressing the ecological and social challenges of our time. In doing so, it offers a path forward that honors the interconnectedness of all life, uniting humanity in the shared responsibility of nurturing the planet for generations to come.

Shallow Conservatism: A Corruption and Caricature of True Conservatism

Shallow conservatism represents a distorted and hollowed-out version of true conservatism. It often aligns with neoliberalism, prioritizing market forces and protecting the privileges of the already privileged while neglecting the deeper, life-centered values that conservatism can embody. This shallow approach reduces conservatism to a narrow, self-serving ideology that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term well-being and fails to recognize the profound interconnectedness of all life.

Neoliberalism Masquerading as Conservatism
Shallow conservatism frequently aligns with neoliberalism, emphasizing deregulation, privatization, and the pursuit of profit above all else. While true conservatism values stewardship and sustainability, shallow conservatism reduces the world to a marketplace, eroding the foundations of stable communities and ecosystems.

• It prioritizes free-market policies that often benefit corporations and the wealthy at the expense of the common good, undermining the conservative principle of fostering a cohesive and just society.
• It equates economic growth with progress, ignoring the ecological and social costs of unchecked consumption.
• It neglects the need for regulating industries to protect natural resources, public health, and the integrity of shared systems.

This market-first approach abandons conservatism’s commitment to safeguarding life and long-term stability in favor of an ideology that rewards accumulation over equity and responsibility.

Protecting Privilege Over Principles
Shallow conservatism often seeks to preserve the status quo of existing power structures, reinforcing the privileges of elites rather than ensuring fairness or opportunity for all.

• It resists social progress not to preserve values but to protect entrenched systems of inequality.
• Policies rooted in shallow conservatism frequently exclude marginalized communities, failing to embrace the conservative principle of fostering a thriving, interconnected society.
• It dismisses or ignores the needs of future generations, privileging the comfort and power of the present few.

This approach betrays conservatism’s deeper commitment to the common good, reducing it to a tool for maintaining dominance and division.

Narrow-Mindedness and Disconnection
Shallow conservatism is profoundly narrow in its vision, focusing on immediate benefits for a select group while ignoring the broader realities of life’s interconnectedness.

• It lacks the ecological awareness that recognizes humanity’s dependence on healthy ecosystems and the intricate relationships that sustain life.
• It dismisses the global consequences of its actions, from climate change to economic inequality, seeing only the immediate advantages for a limited constituency.
• It undermines the long-term perspective central to true conservatism, sacrificing future stability for short-term profit or power.

This narrow focus corrupts conservatism’s essence, which values prudence, foresight, and an understanding of the interdependence of individuals, communities, and the natural world.

The Caricature of Conservatism
Shallow conservatism creates a caricature of true conservatism by reducing its principles to clichés and distortions. It clings to tradition not out of reverence for wisdom but as a tool to resist progress and maintain control.

• It pays lip service to values like family and morality while enacting policies that harm families and undermine social cohesion.
• It weaponizes patriotism to divide rather than unite, exploiting fear and grievance instead of fostering a shared commitment to the common good.
• It uses the language of freedom to justify exploitation and inequality, distorting conservatism’s emphasis on personal responsibility and justice.

This caricature strips conservatism of its depth and integrity, leaving behind a shallow, cynical framework that serves power rather than principles.

The Failure to Recognize Interconnectedness
At its most profound, conservatism recognizes the interconnectedness of all life, emphasizing the importance of relationships—between individuals, communities, and the natural world. Shallow conservatism, by contrast, ignores these connections, fostering disconnection and alienation.

• It fails to acknowledge humanity’s role as stewards of the Earth, neglecting the ecological consequences of its actions.
• It dismisses the interconnectedness of social systems, ignoring how inequality and exclusion harm everyone, not just the marginalized.
• It neglects the spiritual and emotional dimensions of life, reducing human purpose to material success and economic competition.

This lack of awareness corrodes the essence of conservatism, transforming it into a force that undermines the very systems it claims to protect.

Restoring Conservatism’s Depth
To move beyond shallow conservatism, there must be a return to its deeper, life-centered roots. True conservatism values the preservation of life, the wisdom of traditions, and the stability of systems that support thriving communities and ecosystems.

• It embraces long-term thinking, understanding that decisions made today shape the future for generations to come.
• It values diversity—cultural, ecological, and social—recognizing that resilience comes from interconnectedness and inclusion.
• It fosters a sense of responsibility for the well-being of all, not just the privileged few, seeing humanity as part of a larger web of existence.

By reclaiming these principles, conservatism can transcend its shallow caricature and become a force for profound and lasting good.

Conclusion: From Shallow to Deep Conservatism
Shallow conservatism, with its neoliberal leanings, privilege protection, and disconnection from life’s interdependence, is a corruption of true conservatism. It narrows the scope of a philosophy meant to preserve life and stability, reducing it to a self-serving ideology that benefits the few at the expense of the many. Restoring conservatism’s depth requires a return to its foundational principles of stewardship, interconnectedness, and long-term thinking. Only then can it truly serve the purpose of safeguarding life, culture, and the planet for generations to come.

Why Trump and the Current Republican Party Are Not Conservative

Conservatism, at its core, is a philosophy rooted in preserving life-sustaining systems, respecting tradition and institutions, fostering fiscal responsibility, and valuing moral integrity. It emphasizes long-term thinking, careful stewardship, and the maintenance of stable, functional societies. When viewed through this lens, Donald Trump and the current Republican Party often diverge significantly from these foundational principles. Instead of embodying true conservatism, their actions and rhetoric are better characterized by populism, authoritarianism, and a radical rejection of traditional conservative values.

Disrespect for Institutions and the Rule of Law
Conservatism values the stability of institutions as the foundation of societal order and continuity. Institutions such as the judiciary, law enforcement, and democratic systems are critical to maintaining the rule of law.

• Trump’s repeated attacks on the legitimacy of elections, the judiciary, and the free press undermine the conservative respect for these institutions.
• The January 6th Capitol riot, which Trump incited through baseless claims of election fraud, represents a direct assault on the peaceful transfer of power—a cornerstone of conservatism.
• The Republican Party’s acquiescence to these attacks reveals a shift away from the conservative principle of safeguarding democratic systems.

Fiscal Irresponsibility
True conservatism emphasizes fiscal discipline, limited government spending, and reducing national debt to ensure economic stability for future generations.

• Under Trump’s administration, the national debt grew by $7.8 trillion, a stark contradiction to conservative fiscal values.
• Tax cuts disproportionately benefiting the wealthy, combined with increased government spending, further abandoned the conservative principle of balanced budgets.
• The Republican Party’s unwillingness to address these issues suggests an abandonment of economic conservatism in favor of short-term political gain.

Moral and Ethical Decline in Leadership
Conservatives historically value integrity, dignity, and moral responsibility in leadership as essential to earning public trust and fostering societal cohesion.

• Trump’s personal conduct—marked by inflammatory rhetoric, attacks on political opponents, and allegations of corruption—stands in stark contrast to these ideals.
• The Republican Party’s defense of Trump’s behavior signals a prioritization of loyalty to a figure over adherence to ethical principles.

Abandonment of Conservatism’s Intellectual Tradition
Conservatism has a rich intellectual tradition, emphasizing careful deliberation, humility, and respect for history. Figures like Edmund Burke, Russell Kirk, and William F. Buckley Jr. upheld these ideals.

• Trump’s governing style, characterized by impulsiveness, divisive rhetoric, and disdain for expertise, rejects this intellectual heritage.
• The Republican Party’s alignment with conspiracy theories and rejection of scientific consensus, such as on climate change, further distances it from the thoughtful, evidence-based approach of traditional conservatism.

Populism Over Principle
Trump’s rise to power has shifted the Republican Party toward populism, which appeals to emotions and grievances rather than grounded principles.

• Trump’s rhetoric divides the electorate into “us versus them,” undermining the conservative goal of fostering unity through shared values.
• Populism’s focus on short-term gains and sensationalism often disregards the long-term consequences of policy decisions, a departure from conservatism’s careful, measured approach.

What Labels Are More Fitting for Trump and the Current Republican Party?

Populism
Trump’s style of leadership aligns closely with populism, characterized by appeals to anger, fear, and grievance. His rhetoric often pits “the people” against “elites,” creating a divisive narrative rather than offering substantive solutions grounded in conservative principles.

Authoritarianism
Trump’s disregard for democratic norms and his attempts to consolidate power, such as pressuring election officials and encouraging mob violence, align more closely with authoritarian tendencies than with conservative respect for the rule of law and individual liberty.

Nationalism
Trump’s “America First” agenda prioritizes isolationism, protectionism, and cultural homogeneity, diverging from the global perspective and open trade traditionally embraced by conservatives.

Radical Reactionism
Rather than preserving traditions through thoughtful evolution, Trump and the Republican Party often pursue reactionary policies aimed at undoing progress without offering sustainable alternatives. This form of radicalism is fundamentally at odds with conservatism’s caution and focus on continuity.

Corporatism
The party’s policies frequently prioritize corporate interests and the wealthy elite, further alienating it from conservatism’s emphasis on the common good and equitable economic systems.

Conclusion: A Departure from Conservatism
Trump and the current Republican Party have abandoned the core principles of conservatism, including respect for institutions, fiscal responsibility, moral leadership, and intellectual rigor. Their actions are more accurately described as populist, authoritarian, and reactionary, driven by short-term gains and divisive rhetoric rather than a commitment to long-term stability and societal well-being. For true conservatives, reclaiming the values of stewardship, respect for tradition, and thoughtful governance is essential to restoring the integrity of their philosophy.