The Evolution of Political Conservatism in America: A Comparative Study of the 1970s and Today

Over the past few decades, the landscape of American politics has shifted dramatically, transforming from a period of widespread liberalism in the 1970s to the current political climate marked by ideological polarization and polarization. In this article, we will explore the contrasting values and attitudes of Americans during the 1970s and today, focusing specifically on the extent of cultural conservatism and its implications for the nation.

The 1970s: A Liberal Era

Contrary to popular belief, the 1970s in the United States were a time of significant liberal progress. Many of the social and cultural changes we associate with the 1960s actually solidified and expanded during the 1970s. While the early part of the decade saw a continuation of the liberal wave, the late 1970s witnessed a notable backlash that led to the Reagan Revolution and a significant shift in the Republican Party to the religious right.

Key Characteristics of the 1970s

During this era, America experienced a relatively open and liberal socio-political environment. Richard Nixon signs the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency, which paved the way for future environmental regulations. Tax cuts were seen as a solution to almost any economic problem, indicating a shift towards Reaganomics. Fashion trends were also reflective of this liberal mindset, with the rise of bold styles like the mini skirt, halter tops, and bare shoulders.

Attitudes towards social issues were more progressive compared to today. Men could freely wear long hair, and the culture show "All in the Family" mocked bigots with humor. Gun enthusiasts tended to keep their interest to themselves, and while racism was still prevalent, the civil rights movement had brought about significant strides. In cities like New York, this era was marked by vibrant club life and an increase in the usage of drugs like pot and cocaine.

The Shift to Conservative Dominance

The late 1970s saw a dramatic shift as the Reagan Revolution brought about significant changes in political and social landscapes. Arguably, the 1970s saw more liberal policies and attitudes than the present day. The rise of the religious right within the Republican Party and the embrace of stricter moral and cultural values marked a stark contrast from the past.

Modern American Politics

Today, the United States is characterized by deep ideological divides. The term "conservative" now holds a much different meaning than it did in the early to mid-1970s. In today's political climate, many "conservative" stances are seen as radical, such as tax cuts for the wealthy and the encroachment of religious values into public policy.

The election of Ronald Reagan in 1980 marked a significant shift in how "conservative" was defined. The political alliance between Reagan and Jerry Falwell's Moral Majority movement led to a platform where the rights of a select Christian group were prioritized, often at the expense of constitutional civil liberties. This approach is not conservative but rather highly radical and divisive.

Current Ideological Polarization

Since the 1980s, the number of moderate voters in the middle has gradually decreased. Liberals and conservatives are now roughly evenly divided, a stark contrast from the past. Additionally, the concept of "fiscally conservative" politicians is now rare in both major political parties. The adoption of extreme views on issues such as tax policies and the inclusion of personal religious beliefs in politics has become more prevalent.

President Trump's impact on the definition of "conservative" is particularly concerning. He has encouraged violent and extreme groups to align themselves with the conservative movement, leading to incidents like private militias threatening to kidnap state governors. These actions are far from the historical understanding of conservatism and reflect a shift towards radicalism.

Conclusion

The evolution of political conservatism in America is a fascinating journey from a more liberal era in the 1970s to today's deeply polarized climate. While the 1970s were marked by significant liberalism and progress, the current political landscape is dominated by ideological extremism and polarization. Understanding this shift can provide valuable insights into the challenges facing American society today.