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Compassionate conservatism is an American[1][2] political philosophy that stresses using conservative techniques and concepts in order to improve the general welfare of society. The philosophy supports the implementation of policies designed to help the disadvantaged and alleviate poverty through the free market, envisaging a triangular relationship between government, charities and faith-based organizations.[3] The term entered mainstream parlance between 2001 and 2009, during the administration of US President George W. Bush. He used the term often to describe his personal views and embody some parts of his administration's agenda and policy approach.[4][5]
The term itself is often credited to the American historian and politician Doug Wead, who used it as the title of a speech in 1979. Although its origins lie mostly in accepted economic principles, some applications of it have been criticized as paternalism.[4] The term has been used in the United Kingdom by former Prime Minister David Cameron, in New Zealand by former Prime Minister John Key, and in Lithuania by President Gitanas Nausėda.[6]
The term "compassionate conservatism" has also been applied to Christian democratic political parties.[7] However, Christian democrats are far more supportive of government interventionism in the economy.[8]
- ^ Olasky 2000, pp. xi–xii.
- ^ Olasky 2000, p. 1.
- ^ Watts 2010, pp. 257–258.
- ^ a b Dan P. McAdams (October 27, 2010). George W. Bush and the Redemptive Dream: A Psychological Portrait. Oxford University Press. p. 134. ISBN 978-0-19-978092-1.
- ^ "President George W. Bush on Compassionate Conservatism | Bush Center".
- ^ Young, Audrey (May 21, 2015). "Budget 2015: How it affects you". The New Zealand Herald. Archived from the original on May 18, 2020. Retrieved September 8, 2018.
- ^ Kandur, Jane Louise (October 7, 2016). "Christian Democrats and Muslim Democrats". Daily Sabah. Retrieved July 28, 2017.
- ^ Heywood 2012, p. 83.