Conservatism and Self-Classification

Paper Summary:

This paper presents research designed to address self-classification of conservatives in the United States. Because the U.S. has undergone a period of conservative influence and control of its political system in the last generation, the range of persons identifying themselves as "conservatives" and the variety of sociopolitical beliefs that this group holds has increased in both number and diversity. Following a review of the literature to outline some basic conservative tendencies in the U.S., the findings of a research project are presented in order to determine whether there does in fact seem to be a coherent and comprehensive set of social beliefs that people ascribe to so that they classify themselves as "conservative" rather than as adherents of some other philosophy.

From the Paper:

"The fact that McCloskey didn't use self-classification is somewhat surprising, since he himself suggests in his research report that sometimes there is little difference, or at least shifting difference, between conservatives and liberals (their main political rivals in the U.S.). It is possible that those who identify themselves as conservatives may share some beliefs with those who call themselves liberal. Francis Wilson argues that one reason this may be so is because both conservatives and liberals are dealing with the same content in a social struggle. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Allen, David Y. "Modern Conservatism: The Problem of Definition." The Review of Politics, Vol. 43, No. 4 (October, 1981): 582-603.
• McCloskey, Herbert. "Conservatism and Personality." The American Political Science Review, Vol. 52, No. 1 (March, 1958): 27-45.
• Wilson, Francis G. "The Anatomy of Conservatives." Ethics,Vol. 70, No. 4 (July, 1960): 265-281.

More papers on Conservatism and Self-Classification:

• Analytical Essay # 131174 : "Conservatism and Self-Classifications"
• Research Paper # 89356 : "Advertising and Self-concept"
• Comparison Essay # 111755 : "Adulthood and Self-Awareness"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: