Why Political Conservatives React The Way They Do

The psychological values of political conservatives have been studied extensively in psychology and political science. These values are not absolute or universal but represent general tendencies that can help explain political behavior, attitudes, and identity.

Here is an overview of the core psychological values commonly associated with political conservatism, backed by research:

Core Psychological Values of Political Conservatives

Conservatives typically value social order, tradition, and hierarchy. This includes a preference for predictability, structure, and the preservation of existing institutions. Law & order policies, support for police/military.

Psychological foundation: High need for cognitive closure; lower tolerance for ambiguity. Emphasis on in-group loyalty, national pride, and cultural identity.

Moral Foundation Theory (from Jonathan Haidt) shows conservatives rate loyalty, authority, and sanctity higher than liberals. 

Opposition to abortion, traditional sexual norms

Moral Purity and Sanctity

Valuing purity (moral, religious, or bodily) is more pronounced among conservatives. Often tied to religiosity, traditional family values, and sexual norms. 

Opposition to abortion, traditional sexual norms

Respect for Authority

Preference for legitimate authority figures and structured power dynamics. Often translates into support for law enforcement, military, and hierarchical institutions. Nationalism, immigration restriction, "America First".

Resistance to Change

Conservatives are more risk-averse and change-averse.Tend to see tradition as a source of wisdom and  stability, rather than a problem to solve. 

Resistance to rapid social reforms or progressive norms.

These values are not inherently negative or positive — they serve functional roles in society. Many conservatives also value fairness, care, and justice, but often prioritize different moral tradeoffs than liberals.

Political ideology exists on a spectrum, and individuals can hold a mix of conservative and liberal values depending on the context.