Conservatism in America Since 1945 (HIS 367)
Final Exam, Spring 2013
The conservative movement is at a crossroads. Changing demographics, economic realities, cultural norms, and international relations have worked against modern conservatism in recent years. Below, I lay out four challenges facing American conservatism. Your job: explain the historical reasons why conservatism is facing these challenges, and then propose a solution based upon your knowledge of conservative principles, politics, and history. You may bring in a typed, one-page outline to the exam.
1. Demography: As seen in the charts below, the nation is getting less white, at a time when the Republican Party is increasingly dependent upon the white vote. Why have conservatives become so reliant on the white vote? Why have they had difficulty making inroads with minorities? How should they adapt their strategy going forward?
2004: Kerry (D) Bush (R)
White (77%) 41% 58%
Black (11%) 88% 11%
Latino (8%) 53% 44%
Asian (2%) 56% 44%
2008: Obama (D) McCain (R)
White (74%) 43% 55%
Black (13%) 95% 4%
Latino (9%) 67% 31%
Asian (2%) 62% 39%
2012: Obama (D) Romney (R)
White (72%) 39% 59%
Black (13%) 93% 6%
Latino (10%) 71% 27%
Asian (3%) 73% 26%
2. Economics: The U.S. is facing a $16 trillion debt. Government spending adds upwards of $1 trillion to the debt each year, while top-marginal tax rates are as low as they’ve been since before WWII. In a recent poll, 60% of respondents supported raising taxes on those making over $250,000 a year. Why do deficits and calls for tax increases pose a problem for conservatives? What economic arguments should they make going forward?
3. Cultural Norms: In the most recent election, popular majorities in several states voted for marriage equality (the legalization of same-sex marriages) and the legalization of recreational marijuana. In a poll taken two weeks ago, 54% of respondents described themselves as pro-choice (in favor of legal abortion) and 38% described themselves as pro-life (in favor of restricting abortion). What problems does the liberalization of cultural norms pose for the conservative movement? What adjustments can they make to overcome these problems?
4. Foreign Policy: In the wake of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, Republicans have lost their long-standing lead on foreign policy. Americans have expressed weariness with adventures abroad, with President Obama calling for “nation-building at home” rather than abroad. How did conservatives come to lose their foreign-policy credentials? What can they do to reclaim them, given the general mood against increased military ventures abroad?
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