The Rise and Fall of Conservatism in Western Politics

The British Conservative Party faced a historic defeat on July 4, winning the fewest seats ever, signaling a potential decline of moderate conservatism. This defeat occurs amid a global rise of nationalist populism, which has gained traction in countries like Hungary, Italy, and Argentina, and is threatening traditional conservative parties in the United States, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The current political climate reflects a pattern seen throughout history, where economic decline, job loss, and immigration have fueled right-wing populism. This phenomenon is not new; it has been a recurring theme since the establishment of nation-states, often surfacing during times of social and economic upheaval. The rise of figures like Donald Trump in the U.S. exemplifies this trend, as he drew inspiration from historical populist movements, including the America First slogan used by various groups over the decades. The article suggests that while the current situation is concerning, conservatism has faced similar challenges before and has the potential to adapt and survive in the face of nationalist populism.