The problem with "Conservatism"

HA! What a title for a blog post. Such a title really needs a book. Or two. Or three.

I've been thinking about this for quite some time now. A quote from a very smart and upstanding individual reignited the ongoing questions and debate I've been having with myself and others. This individual essentially argued for "revolution" within the conservative movement in order for it to survive. I'm paraphrasing of course, but he essentially complained that conservatism has become so watered down, that it has strayed from its principles.

I think there are a lot of problems with this type of thinking. Sadly, most people, even if they aren't as libertarian as this individual is, would agree that "conservatism" has lost its principles.

But what are the principles of conservatism?

Perhaps part of the problem is that conservatism has bought into the idea that for it to be successful, it must be political. Those who truly study conservatism know, that conservatism is inherently anti-political because it is inherently anti-ideological. Conservatism never looks to political solutions for answers. It does not hinge its success on the political success and failures of its political manifestations.

True conservatism is a way of life. And it has existed long before John Locke or the American Founding Fathers. It is a tradition of great thinkers, who together form what Christopher Dawson and T.S. Eliot understood to be a "Republic of Letters." Dawson's "Republic" never carried a political connotation. Rather it united an understanding of God, man, and man's place in the order of things. These things are in themselves, non-political.

Conservatism of course, has political manifestations. But the key to uncovering them, is not found through political means. I'm curious when conservatives will finally realize this... if they ever do. We can win as many offices and presidencies as we want. But until we understand our own specific place in the world, we will never change lives or minds. Perhaps the key is to first change ourselves.