Discuss the tradition of conservatism in the U.S. policymaking environment. Compare this tradition to that of European policymaking. Explore the contradiction between the ideal of conservatism and its practice in U.S. policymaking. What challenges are evident in U.S. policymaking as a result of this contradiction?

What will be an ideal response?

The discussions of conservatism in the U.S. policymaking environment center on the notion of limited government. Traditionally, U.S. citizens do not want government taking an active role in their lives. Thus, when compared to European countries, government does not appear to act directly in as many aspects of the lives of its citizens. European governments (with consent of its citizenry) are much more likely to enact programs that demonstrate a direct service to people. Important to note the United States does regulate and control the economy in ways not common in Europe (e.g., consumer safety). If effects of regulation are considered along with more direct methods of intervention, then the policymaking influence of the U.S. government appears comparable to that of European nations. Public spending patterns in the United States tend to support this. Post World War II America has seen significant increases in social services spending. There are limits of U.S. conservatism (limited government) and the American public does have commitment to social values. Free and Cantril’ notion of Americans as “ideological conservatives” and “operational liberals” is evident. Citizens express skepticism about government in polls, but vote for taxes for specific purposes. Deficit is somewhat a function of this: Politicians win votes by advocating reducing taxes and advocating spending money.