MUNCIE, Indiana -- The new year is a good time to examine current applications and definitions of liberalism and conservatism. Writers to the letters section of newspapers often pen their missives in absolutes with few illustrations of what their ideological pronouncements mean or imply for citizens, groups and society.
For starters, classical liberalism espouses freedom of the individual from interference by the state, toleration by the state in matters of morality and religion, a hands-off style of governance that emphasizes economic freedom so that the capitalistic invisible hand can work its will, as well as the belief that natural rights (procedural due process) exist independently of government.
Conservatism reflects principles and practices of citizens who advocate preservation of established traditions or institutions -- resisting and opposing any changes in these. (Conservatism is not the same as conservation -- the protection, preservation, replenishment and prudent use of natural resources, which indicates the planned use of public lands, forests, wildlife, water and minerals.)