This topic may be the best for bringing out the hidden internal authoritarian boss, busybody, and scold in people.
It has indeed.....
Conservatism has a natural affinity for authoritarianism. As a conservative, one must realize this and balance it with some small "L" libertine beliefs, or it can easily get out of control, which it has on a few occasions in the past few years of republican domination in the House and perhaps to a lesser degree in the Senate. But I see it more in the local governance.
There is little consistency on the various personal issues. On one hand there is great consternation over property rights and freedom of association and from the same mouth comes support for stronger laws and/or prohibitions regarding sex, smoking, the environment, dress and even language....or on some occasions, thought it's self.
At times, this stuff is way over the top, and is defended strongly by those who have advocated it, and with invectives usually saved for issues of principle.
I find it very worrisome, and as a lifelong fiscal conservative and hawk, it often becomes a subject of great concern for me, and many who have never strayed from party loyalty for a single second.
I think this is partly responsible for the position that some conservatives find themselves in for the 2006 cycle. I voted a straight ticket this year, mostly because of my desire to continue our foreign policy initiatives, but this will weigh heavily on me in 2008 if it continues to become worse.
I am certainly not alone with my observations, and I am not a Libertarian or anything close to it. Your observation of authoritarianism is spot on.