Social conservatism

Definition

Social conservatism is a political and social philosophy that promotes traditional values and beliefs, often emphasizing the importance of family, religion, and moral principles in society. This ideology frequently advocates for the preservation of established cultural norms and often resists progressive changes in social issues, such as gender equality and reproductive rights. Its connection to political movements often seeks to influence legislation in ways that align with these traditional values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social conservatism gained significant traction in the U.S. during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly among religious groups who sought to maintain traditional family structures.
2. Phyllis Schlafly emerged as a leading figure in the anti-ERA movement, arguing that the amendment would undermine women's roles as wives and mothers.
3. Social conservatives often align with right-wing political parties, emphasizing issues such as opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage.
4. The fight against the ERA was not just about women's rights but also about maintaining traditional gender roles within American society.
5. Despite its opposition to gender equality measures like the ERA, social conservatism has also faced criticism for perpetuating inequality through its adherence to rigid gender norms.

Review Questions

• How did Phyllis Schlafly's activism represent the ideals of social conservatism during the fight against the Equal Rights Amendment?
  • Phyllis Schlafly's activism embodied social conservatism by strongly opposing the Equal Rights Amendment, arguing that it would disrupt traditional family structures and undermine women's roles as homemakers. Her grassroots campaign mobilized conservative women and framed the ERA as a threat to family values, emphasizing that protecting these values was essential for society. Schlafly's efforts highlighted the intersection of social conservatism with women's issues, positioning her as a key figure in rallying opposition to progressive changes in gender equality.
• In what ways did social conservatism influence public opinion and legislation regarding women's rights in the 20th century?
  • Social conservatism significantly shaped public opinion on women's rights throughout the 20th century by framing traditional gender roles as essential for societal stability. Activists argued that policies promoting gender equality, like the ERA, would lead to negative consequences for families and women’s roles within them. This influence extended into legislation, where social conservatives successfully lobbied against various feminist initiatives and reinforced policies that maintained traditional views on marriage, family life, and reproductive rights, reflecting their resistance to change.
• Evaluate the impact of social conservatism on contemporary discussions around gender equality and women's rights.
  • The impact of social conservatism on contemporary discussions around gender equality remains profound, as debates continue over issues such as reproductive rights and workplace equality. Social conservative arguments often evoke traditional family structures to challenge modern feminist perspectives, emphasizing a return to 'family values.' This ideological battle influences political rhetoric and policy-making today, suggesting that while significant progress has been made in gender equality, entrenched social conservative beliefs still pose challenges to further advancements, creating a complex landscape of advocacy and resistance.

Related terms

Phyllis Schlafly: An American conservative activist known for her opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment and her promotion of traditional gender roles.

Equal Rights Amendment (ERA): A proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution aimed at guaranteeing equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex.

Traditionalism: A belief system that values preserving long-standing customs and practices, often in opposition to modern progressive views.