Divisive Roots: The Authoritarian Nature of National Conservatism
The National Conservatism Conference (NatCon) in Washington D.C. has become a stage for high-profile Republican figures to promote an ideology that prioritizes national unity over individual rights. With influential speakers like Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, the conference prominently features its vision of a cohesive national identity grounded in religious and cultural homogeneity. But to fully grasp the implications of this movement, it’s necessary to dig into the roots of national conservatism and its decidedly authoritarian leanings.
Rejecting Individualism for National Unity
At the heart of national conservatism lies a fundamental rejection of individualism, favoring the primacy of national unity and social cohesion instead. According to Yoram Hazony, a key figure in this movement, there is an explicit distancing from neoliberal and libertarian values traditionally associated with individual autonomy. This pursuit of homogeneity threatens the pillars of liberal democracy and individual freedoms.
The Christian Nation Paradigm
A striking feature of the NatCon’s ideology is its espousal of a Christian majority’s cultural dominance. The movement’s “Statement of Principles” argues for a public life deeply rooted in Christian moral vision. Critics say this stance could impinge upon freedom of religion and contradicts the Constitution’s Establishment Clause, posing risks akin to a theocratic rule.
Immigrants and the Vision of “Real Americans”
Prominent national conservatives like Senator Eric Schmitt have suggested that America’s prevalent cultural norms are exclusive to its original settlers’ descendants. During the conference, Schmitt articulated concerns over immigration, hinting that only those aligned with this ‘original’ culture can truly be deemed American. Such rhetoric risks marginalizing newer immigrants, emphasizing religious and cultural criteria over inclusivity.
The Regression against Liberalization
The national conservatism narrative perpetuates a rebellion against liberalization—an essential dynamic that accompanies economic prosperity in modern societies. The movement’s aversion to liberal freedoms is rooted in fears of losing a perceived ‘righteous way of life’. It suggests that diverse lifestyles and freedoms pose threats to national and cultural identity.
The Dilemma for Republicans
The rise of national conservatism represents a crossroads for mainstream Republicans who must confront the movement’s deviation from foundational democratic principles. With actions aligning more closely with a once marginal sect advocating authoritarian measures, this emergence challenges Republicans to redefine their allegiance to individual liberties and constitutional values.
National Conservatism’s Future
While the ideology behind NatCon’s movement poses significant concerns, it continues to gain traction by capitalizing on nationalist and populist sentiments. According to Press Telegram, the future of this movement will depend heavily on the broader Republican party’s response to its proposed societal structure. Will the party ultimately embrace or reject these divisive roots?
