Why Is Conservatism Dominated by Hatred and Violence?

The rise of conservatism in recent years has been accompanied by a troubling increase in violence and intolerance. This essay will explore the reasons why conservatism has become prone to violence and intolerance, and how this trend can be reversed.

The Roots of Conservative Intolerance

At its core, conservatism is a political ideology that emphasizes traditional values, limited government, and individual responsibility. However, in recent years, conservative ideology has become increasingly associated with intolerance and violence. This is largely due to the rise of the so-called “alt-right” movement, which has embraced a brand of conservatism that is hostile to minorities, immigrants, and other marginalized groups.

The alt-right has been particularly vocal in its opposition to immigration, which it views as a threat to the traditional values of the nation. This has led to an increase in anti-immigrant rhetoric and violence, such as the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, which resulted in the death of a counter-protester.

The alt-right has also embraced a brand of conservatism that is hostile to LGBTQ rights, which has led to an increase in hate crimes against LGBTQ individuals. This is especially true in states that have passed laws restricting the rights of LGBTQ individuals, such as North Carolina’s “bathroom bill.”

Finally, the alt-right has embraced a brand of conservatism that is hostile to Muslims, which has led to an increase in anti-Muslim rhetoric and violence. This is especially true in states that have passed laws restricting the rights of Muslims, such as the travel ban imposed by the Trump administration.

Reversing the Trend

Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reverse the trend of conservatism becoming increasingly prone to violence and intolerance.

First, it is important to recognize that not all conservatives are intolerant or violent. Many conservatives are committed to the values of tolerance and respect for all individuals, regardless of their race, religion, or sexual orientation. It is important to recognize and celebrate these values, and to make sure that they are part of the conservative movement.

Second, it is important to recognize that intolerance and violence are not inherent to conservatism. Rather, they are the result of a particular brand of conservatism that has been embraced by the alt-right. It is important to reject this brand of conservatism and to instead embrace a conservatism that is rooted in tolerance and respect for all individuals.

Finally, it is important to recognize that intolerance and violence are not the only way to express conservative values. There are many other ways to express conservative values, such as through education, dialogue, and peaceful protest. It is important to embrace these methods of expressing conservative values, and to reject the use of violence and intolerance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, conservatism has become increasingly prone to violence and intolerance in recent years, largely due to the rise of the alt-right movement. However, there are steps that can be taken to reverse this trend, such as recognizing that not all conservatives are intolerant or violent, rejecting the brand of conservatism embraced by the alt-right, and embracing other methods of expressing conservative values. By taking these steps, it is possible to create a conservatism that is rooted in tolerance and respect for all individuals.