1. 12
CONSERVATISM

2. AGENDA CHAPTER 12
Defining Conservatism
Why Study Conservatism
Situating Conservatism
Contemporary American Conservatism
Conservatism’s Educational Implications

3. Defining Conservatism
Conservatism is an ideology that emphasizes the preservation of institutions in what is believed to be their primary and traditional form and function.
The word’s root conserve means to keep maintain, preserve, or prevent loss or decay.
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4. Why Study Conservatism
Since Ronald Reagan was elected President in 1980, Conservatism has been one of the major ideologies in the United States.
Conservatives have strong views on sociology, the economy, religion, the family, education, and schooling.
(c) 2008 Prentice-Hall, All rights reserved.

5. Situating Conservatism
Conservatism’s origin as an ideology can be traced to the British statesman and political theorist Edmund Burke ( ).
Burke wrote, that the French Revolutionaries, had attempted to either distort or destroy traditional institutions.
(c) 2008 Prentice-Hall, All rights reserved.

6. Contemporary American Conservatism
With the election of Ronald Reagan as President in 1980, Conservatism in the United States enjoyed a strong revival in politics, culture, economics, and education.
Religious Fundamentalism – Christian fundamentalists, sometimes called the “religious right”, are often strongly affiliated with the Conservative ideology.
(c) 2008 Prentice-Hall, All rights reserved.

7. Conservatism’ s Educational Implications
Conservatives believe that education is society’s way of transmitting the cultural heritage.
The primary purpose of schools is to educate children and adolescents in academic skills and knowledge.
(c) 2008 Prentice-Hall, All rights reserved.

8. SUMMARY CHAPTER 12
Defining Conservatism
Why Study Conservatism
Situating Conservatism
Contemporary American Conservatism
Conservatism’s Educational Implications