Tentative Answer - Burke

The label “Conservative”, often applied to Burke, has been used by polemicists and analysts, Which of these apply to Burke?

Burke seems to be a conservative in his support of the aristocracy and retainment of the aristocracy as a necessity to a state. The aristocracy, he urges, maintains the order in a state and justifies their positions in power due to their longevity and legacy. The historical progress, for Burke, can only be maintained by the aristocracy. Historical retainment is important to Burke who relies on the continuation of traditions than social change. This is in contrast to Robespierre, who is in support of radical social change.

In comparing Burke to contemporary American conservatives, Burke’s ideals aligns a lot with conservatism of today. There is an adherence to resistance to social change by most conservatives in the United States. This is seen in the disagreement to legalization of gay marriage, Planned Parenthood, etc. with the rationalization of preserving traditional Christian values. This is in fear of a radical shift in government that could be detrimental to the state. Much how Burke discouraged the violence Robespierre was inciting, Republicans fear the alterations in America partially for how it would change society. Despite the several decades that have passed, Burke’s conservatism and reason for conservative thought still rings true for present day politicians and Republicans in the United States.