Question

What contradiction did the reagan presidency reveal about modern conservatism? group of answer choices

O conservatives cut spending dramatically, only to complain about a lack of public
O services republicans brought more women into public office than any other party, but actively legislated for men’s rights
O conservatives promised to destroy labor unions, only to depend on their political support in elections reagan’s policies enriched investors

Answer 1

The Reagan presidency revealed a contradiction in modern conservatism where the administration cut social spending but increased defense spending, contradicting their fiscal responsibility promise, and although advocating social conservative values during campaigns, did not advance these social agendas significantly in policy.

The correct answer is option 2.

Step-by-step explanation:

Contradiction in Reagan's Presidency and Modern Conservatism

The Reagan presidency revealed a significant contradiction about modern conservatism. While President Ronald Reagan and modern conservatives advocated for a decrease in government influence and spending, their policies did not always align with these principles. For instance, Reagan's administration drastically cut spending on social programs but increased defense spending. This combination exacerbated budget deficits and increased the national debt, thereby contradicting the conservative promise of fiscal responsibility and smaller government.

Moreover, Reagan was often presented as a champion of family values and traditional rights, appealing to social conservatives. Yet, his administration's policies favored wealthy investors and corporations, suggesting a disconnect between conservative social goals and economic actions. The election of 1980 saw Reagan promising to address the concerns of evangelical Christians and socially conservative Americans, like opposition to abortion and the feminist movement, but once in office, his policies did not significantly advance these social agendas.

One stark example of this contradiction is Reagan's stance on labor unions. Although Reagan declared a commitment to destroy labor unions, he still managed to retain political support from union voters, indicating a complex relationship between the administration's actions and the interests of its conservative base. In conclusion, the Reagan presidency revealed a contradiction in modern conservatism where economic policies favored the affluent, and social promises were not comprehensively fulfilled.