Differences Between Traditional Liberalism and Conservatism

Traditional liberalism is characterized by a progressive sentiment that pushes for change and progress in existing institutions, aiming for a more just society. Conservatism, on the other hand, emphasizes the wisdom of caution and tradition in approaching change, advocating for stability to prevent chaos. A good liberal democracy balances these views, with liberals advocating for change and conservatives urging caution. Without conservatives, progressive revolutions tend to result in chaos and economic instability. Conversely, an absence of progressives leads to authoritarianism and repression. The core of liberalism lies in maximizing individual freedom, while conservatism focuses on tradition, family, and shared values. Extremes on both sides, such as far-left violence and far-right authoritarianism, can disrupt this balance. The advent of social media has amplified extreme voices, silencing the moderate center and exacerbating societal divisions, which poses a significant challenge for the country.