The last throes of conservatism (as we know it)?

The latest issue of the New Yorker contains a sexily entitled article called "THE FALL OF CONSERVATISM" by George Packer. I thought to myself: "An article with such a bold declaration deserves to be read." As per usual with the New Yorker, it was a well-written, heavily researched piece and, at nine pages long, it demands your attention. Essentially, the central thesis argues that the American conservatism that started with Barry Goldwater is in its last throes as the Bush era comes to a close.

The reasons for its demise are manifold, but Packer ultimately argues that the current Republican brand has lost its raison d'etre in current politics. Why's that? Because the Republican predilection for polemics and rhetoric can't solve the problems of today that require governance. Polemics and cultural war posturing can't help rebuild New Orleans or give health care to poor people. The focus on rhetoric to win elections (which worked so convincingly for Reagan and Bush) has paralyzed the Republicans in the face of real problems that this country faces. Even that tried-and-true Republican strategy of promising to cut taxes doesn't work for economic issues that go beyond Reaganomics. It turns out that the American people do want government to do things. As David Brooks eloquently puts it in the article, they want government that is "melioristic" at heart.

Naturally, your acceptance of this reality is dependent on your political affiliation, but bear in mind that the author does not say that the Republicans as a party are dead, just that conservatism as we know it is. Part of the proof lies in the choosing of John McCain as the nominee, someone who is ideologically out of step with conservative base. Republicans need to focus on administering and accept that government is part of the solution, not part of the problem. That idea is more in step with what the average American believes now, especially given the events of the last few years. It will be interesting to see how the Republicans respond as election losses continue to mount and a new, Democratic-leaning generation, thanks to the failures of Bushism, comes to prominence.