Historically, the central themes in
American conservatism have included respect for American traditions, support of
republicanism and the rule of law, Judeo-Christian values, anti-Communism, advocacy of
American exceptionalism and a defense of Western civilization from perceived threats posed by
moral relativism,
multiculturalism, and postmodern ridicule of traditional culture.
Liberty is a core value, with a particular emphasis on strengthening the free market, and opposition to high taxes and government or labor union encroachment on the entrepreneur.