The Cost of Conservativism to Society
Conservative ideologies, particularly when fused with religious motivations, have long been implicated in perpetuating harm across various domains of life. From social inequalities to environmental neglect, the consequences often extend beyond individual actions, embedding themselves into systemic practices that harm marginalized communities, the poor, and the planet.
One of the most glaring examples of harm lies in the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. Beyond mere ostracization, many conservative societies actively demonize and persecute LGBTQ+ people. In at least 64 countries, same-sex relationships are criminalized, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to the death penalty in some jurisdictions. This legal persecution is often compounded by cultural practices such as social ostracization, targeted violence, and forced secrecy, as LGBTQ+ individuals live in constant fear of exposure. In regions like the Middle East and North Africa, online spaces that might be refuges for free expression are weaponized against them; governments use social media to entrap and arrest LGBTQ+ people under the guise of protecting “morality.” This legal and social violence has profound impacts, with surveys showing that a significant majority of transgender people globally experience violence in their lifetimes. Many LGBTQ+ activists, in particular, face harassment, arrests, and even physical harm, as the systems they are fighting against are not only deeply entrenched but often backed by religious justifications.
Conservatives frequently cite religious principles as the foundation for such actions. However, these very principles are often invoked selectively, particularly when it comes to environmental stewardship. Christian teachings, for example, emphasize the sanctity of creation and humanity’s responsibility to protect the Earth. Despite this, many conservative factions resist environmental protections, deny climate science, and advocate for policies that accelerate ecological destruction. This contradiction between stated values and actual practices raises troubling questions about the sincerity of their professed beliefs. Instead of promoting policies that align with the interdependence of all life, many conservative-led initiatives prioritize short-term economic gains for corporations, undermining long-term sustainability and the health of the planet. By opposing climate action and environmental safeguards, conservatives often exacerbate the very ecological crises that threaten future generations, directly contradicting the moral imperative to care for creation.
When it comes to the poor, the patterns of harm are just as stark. Conservatives have historically pushed for reduced funding to public welfare programs, leaving vulnerable populations without critical safety nets. In many cases, religious charities step in to fill the void, but often with significant strings attached. For example, some faith-based shelters refuse to assist LGBTQ+ individuals, perpetuating cycles of exclusion, discrimination, and homelessness. This shift of resources from secular, well-regulated organizations to religious charities with questionable practices exemplifies a broader trend: the exploitation of public resources to reinforce private ideologies. Instead of fostering inclusive, comprehensive social support systems, conservatives often divert funds to organizations that prioritize religious conformity over the needs of the most marginalized.
These practices collectively reflect a troubling pattern of prioritizing control and tradition over equity, compassion, and justice. The harm done to LGBTQ+ communities, the poor, and the planet underscores a significant disconnect between conservative rhetoric and the lived realities of their policies. To create a more just and sustainable world, it is essential to scrutinize these contradictions, advocate for policies rooted in evidence, and work towards systems that prioritize the inclusion and well-being of all individuals and the Earth we share.
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