Conservatism, Christianity and Individualism: Not a Good Mix
A conservatism that focuses on individual freedom as the supreme virtue can only undermine Christianity, in the long run.
If you emphasise freedom from government overreach, then it is a small step to seeing the need to free individuals from the reach of religion.
The result is either the abandonment of religion altogether, or individuals interpreting religious texts and doctrines however they want.
A Fine Balance
A conservatism that focuses on institutions, tradition and structures of authority is much more compatible with Christianity, which ultimately depends on these things, particularly in its church life and organisation, its view of morality, its teaching, etc.
However, this approach can lead to failures to address institutional sin and abuses of authority in both government and church, and in the worst case scenario, being complicit in political or religious totalitarianism.
There is no risk-free politics, whether thought or action, so one must choose their poison.
___
Originally published on Dr Jonathan Cole’s page.
Subscribe to his podcast, The Political Animals, for more insights.
Photo by cottonbro.
Recent Articles:
3 September 2026
4.1 MINS
Charlie Kirk’s death became a catalyst for spiritual awakening, prompting Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Wahlberg to publicly embrace deeper faith in Jesus Christ.
3 September 2026
3.7 MINS
How would you feel if you were told that your child’s school, through the Education Department, was obliged to teach children that they could be born in the wrong body and that babies were ‘assigned’ their sex at birth?
3 September 2026
2.1 MINS
Alexis de Tocqueville’s warnings about Islam and democracy raise uncomfortable questions about religious authority, political power, Western freedoms, and the future of liberal societies.
3 September 2026
8.1 MINS
Another collection of G. K. Chesterton’s sharpest one-liners offers wit, wisdom and timeless Christian insight on faith, freedom, truth and society.
2 September 2026
3.8 MINS
Rachel Wilson’s "Occult Feminism" has sparked fierce debate over feminism’s historical roots, Christianity’s role, and the ideological forces shaping modern womanhood.
2 September 2026
4.5 MINS
A new IFS report finds conservatives have and want more children than progressives, with the gap linked to greater fears about parenting, mental health, and genetics among liberals.
1 September 2026
3.3 MINS
Labor's new Digital Duty of Care promises to protect Australians online — but critics warn it's a rebranded censorship push that could silence political dissent, faith voices and the pro-life movement.
