There seem to be two "states" of conservativism, sort of like states of water. Ice and steam are the same critters at heart.

Conservitism seems to be at its' root greed. Protection of private property and protection of profit from the "Great Unwashed".

"Classic" conservatism seems to be their stance when in a minority. "Stay out of my life, stay away from my property, my rights, just leave me alone to accumulate. Do NOT try to run MY life! Privacy, few laws, small government." The government that governs ME least is the government that governs best.

"Neo"-conservativism seems to be the "Classic" conservatives with power. "Let me run YOUR life, you should have no rights because they may get in the way of my greed." The government that governs YOU most is the government that governs best.

Except in the case of the ideologic purists, such as referenced above, they seem to be the same ego-driven folks with their behavior depending upon whether they feel "persecuted" or whether they are able to persecute.

And God save us from organized Christianity having power. Pat Robertson or Jerry Falwell would make any ayatollah proud with their rhetoric. And actions.

Arf