When did the meaning of “CONSERVATIVE” change?

WHEN DID THE MEANING OF ‘CONSERVATIVE’ CHANGE?

Palm Springs Desert Sun
Published - March 05, 2024
Reader submissions: Philip Colavito

Definition − Conservative: “Averse to change or innovation and holding traditional values.”

I’m confused. In my childhood, a conservative person was someone who dressed down. Didn’t swear and was polite. God fearing. Hard-working. Didn’t make fun of others. Loved their family. Upheld the law. Respected by the community. And drew the line between right and wrong. Traditionally, a “conservative” valued decency, respect, family and adherence to moral principles. So, what happened? When did “conservative” ideology change? Why is someone who mocks another considered to be a conservative? When did the act of insurrection become conservative? How is supporting Putin above fighting for democracy considered conservative? Why is a network fabricating news to incite, instead of reporting the facts considered to be conservative? When did conservative mean Christian? How is denying human dignity conservative? Is it conservative to accept misinformation as truth? I guess that it's important to remember that labels are not monolithic. I always thought of myself as conservative. I struggle to figure out right from wrong. It's important to me that everyone prospers as long as they do not hurt each other. I value the truth even if it is contrary to my beliefs. I’m not on the left nor on the right.

I guess I choose to be above.

Philip Colavito
Rancho Mirage, Ca.