Imprimis Article by Dr. Larry Arnn

I read with great interest the article in the December 2016 issue of Imprimis adapted from a speech given by Dr. Arnn titled "A More American Conservatism". Unfortunately Dr. Arnn fails to accurately define the concept "conservative" by attempting to define the term psychologically. Psychology is idealistic, emotional and therefore indefinite. Concepts are realistic, intellectual and therefore definitive. The better definition of the word "conservative" is "to make the presumption for the status quo". Making the presumption for the status quo is an intellectual, rather than psychological, exercise.  It is therefore a better definition than the one provided by Dr. Arnn in the Imprimis article.  The socialist is idealistic and idealism makes the presumption for change.  It makes the presumption for an "ideal" state, perfection.  Perfection is pluralistic and therefore imaginary. (It can only be implemented by manipulation, intimidation or brute force.) Idealism is power oriented.  Realism is individualistic and it acknowledges the primacy of existence. Realism is also ethics oriented it seeks to convince people what is right and wrong rather than using words as weapons.  Epistemologically conservatism acknowledges reality and therefore recognizes that certainty of knowledge is possible and actual.  As far as universal rights and wrongs conservatism acknowledges "the truth" noting that "the truth" applies to everyone everywhere at all times.  And finally conservatism recognizes aesthetics which is to say that they recognize beauty and talent in the area of fine art.