Dear #NeverTrump
The fact that the "lights" of your movement continue to be the racist, homophobic rantings of William F. Buckley, Ayn Rand, & Reagan; not great thinkers, like Edmund Burke & Adam Smith, is what's wrong w/ your brand of "conservatism."
True conservatism respects tradition, reptesentative government, supports progressivism in moderation (including "progressive" on wealth), & is skeptical of all power, especially private power, which remains unaccountable & hidden.
Capitalism, to a true conservative, isn't a force for moral good; free markets often discourage free people. Destruction of the true rule of law & govt, to a true conservative, is an abomination. To a true conservative, Democratic Socialism isn't a cuss word.
Nationalism, populism, and the outright manipulation of religion for the sake of power has no place in the writings of Burke, Smith, or any of the great conversative thinkers. In fact, they often write against such naked assault on power.
All of these sprinkle the writings of Rand, Buckley, & Reagan; as well as the speeches & writings of Barry Goldwater, Jerry Falwell, Milton Friedman & Richard Nixon. In fact, authoritarianism is *encouraged* by these "men."
#NeverTrump
Trump isn't an anomaly to what you brand as "conservatism"; it is your ideology in it's purist form; one that holds no resemblance to the intellect of Burke or Smith. One built on nationalism, manipulation, & a quest for power at all cost.
Both Adam Smith and Edmund Burke were products of their time. It would be foolish to argue they believed in true racial justice. What they did give us, however, was a blueprint forward. One built on respect, moderation, & a skepticism of power in all forms.
If #NeverTrump wants to move forward, they must break free from the denial that controls them. If they want to call themselves "conservative," time denounce Rand, Buckley, & Reagan; time to embrace what true conservatism is all about.
@jerry_jtaylor, you might appreciate this thread. After all, you inspired it.
You can follow @TiffRichElliott.
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