Draft:Destructive Conservatism

Destructive conservatism is a term in political science and journalism that describes a form of conservatism which, in attempting to preserve traditional values, power structures, and social order, leads to negative consequences for society, such as stagnation, social conflicts, violations of human rights, or economic decline. Unlike traditional conservatism, which emphasizes gradual change and stability, destructive conservatism is often characterized by rigid opposition to reforms, authoritarianism, and the use of power to suppress opposition, ultimately undermining the institutions it seeks to protect. The term has gained traction in critical analyses of contemporary political movements, particularly in the context of populism and nationalism.

Origin and etymology

The term "destructive conservatism" is not a classical concept in political science literature but appears in journalism and academic texts from the early 21st century, particularly in critiques of Russian, American, and European conservatism. The word "destructive" derives from the Latin 'dēstruere' ("to destroy"), highlighting the paradoxical effect: conservatism aimed at preservation becomes ruinous due to excessive rigidity. The abbreviation "descon" is a neologism, similar to "neocon" (neoconservatism), and is used in informal discussions, such as on social media or blogs, as a concise designation for this concept.

English-language sources often apply "destructive conservatism" to critiques of American conservatism, particularly in the context of Donald Trump's movement, where it is associated with the erosion of democratic norms.

Definition and characteristics

Destructive conservatism is defined as an ideology that:

• Rigidly resists change: Rejects progressive reforms, viewing them as threats to tradition, leading to social stagnation.
• Promotes authoritarianism: Uses state power to suppress dissent, often through censorship, repression, or media manipulation.
• Generates conflicts: Instead of stability, it provokes internal and external confrontations, for example through nationalism or isolationism.
• Masks destruction: Under the guise of protecting "traditional values" (family, religion, nation), it implements policies that harm the economy, environment, or minority rights.

In contrast to constructive conservatism (e.g., in the tradition of Edmund Burke), descon does not foster evolutionary development but becomes reactionary, often evolving into populism or even totalitarianism. Critics, such as Philip Agre, argue that such conservatism is rooted in inequality and prejudice, making it incompatible with democracy.

Historical examples

Destructive conservatism is associated with leaders whose policies, aimed at preserving power and tradition, led to repression, wars, or social crises. Some notable negative historical examples include:

• Francisco Franco (Spain, 1939–1975): As leader of the Falangist movement, Franco established a dictatorship after the civil war, suppressing opposition, banning regional languages and cultures. His conservatism, emphasizing Catholicism and nationalism, resulted in Spain's isolation, economic backwardness, and the repression of thousands.
• Augusto Pinochet (Chile, 1973–1990): Following a military coup, Pinochet implemented neoliberal reforms under the banner of conservative values, but his regime is notorious for massive human rights violations, disappearances, and torture. This "destructive" approach demolished democratic institutions, leaving deep social scars.
• Benito Mussolini (Italy, 1922–1943): Although fascism evolved from conservatism, Mussolini began as a conservative promising to restore "traditional order." His policies led to totalitarianism, alliance with the Nazis, and the devastation of Italy during World War II.
• Joseph McCarthy (United States, 1950s): The senator who led the "witch hunt" against communists represented a destructive aspect of American conservatism. His campaign ruined the careers of thousands, sowing paranoia and undermining civil liberties.
• Neville Chamberlain (United Kingdom, 1937–1940): His policy of appeasement toward Nazi Germany, motivated by a conservative desire to avoid change and preserve the status quo, contributed to the outbreak of World War II, demonstrating the destructiveness of passive conservatism.

See also

• Conservatism
• Authoritarianism
• Reactionism

References

• Agre, Philip. What Is Conservatism and What Is Wrong with It? (2004).
• Skocpol, Theda; Williamson, Vanessa. The Tea Party and the Remaking of Republican Conservatism (2012).