[FromTheSidelines]

First, define what you mean by “conservative”. I’ve seen so many conflicting statements here that there is NO ONE who would be a “conservative” according to even a plurality of FReepers, let alone a majority.

[fwdude]

What I mean by conservatism is irrelevant. Conservatism once had an objective, solid, non-negotiable, self-evident definition. That so many have lost sight of this is the great tragedy of this Age.

Right now, the best working definition of conservatism can best be described by what it is not:

If you support "gay rights," you are NOT a conservative. If you support affirmation of homosexuality and all its permutations in any degree whatsoever, you are NOT a conservative.

If you believe in a "living Constitution," you are not a conservative.

If you believe in progressively open-ended gun restrictions, you are NOT a conservative.

I you don't think that human life begins at conception, you are NOT a conservative.

Just a start...