An Essay on The Conservative Heart

The underlying theme of The Conservative Heart that is conservatives have the ability based
on our truest values to impact meaningful change on the perpetuation of America as we
currently recognize it remains constant. The content of this text awakens a truth that is
conservatism itself. It also contributes, though, to the idea that the political culture has
contributed not only to the extreme polarization between the parties, but between the ideological
right as well. Most importantly, the author, Arthur C. Brooks, embeds into the reader the value
that is each of us the value of humanity. One of the most appealing aspects of The Conservative
Heart is how Brooks provides examples of humanity from varying cultures, including variabilities
in our own backyard. Through this, he shows that although there are great differences between
us on a global scale, such as our living conditions or the differences in our value systems or
rationalizations, there is a unique commonality that is the effect of the role that our self-belief
plays. So happiness is where we start our journey to build better lives for everyone. As evident
by this statement, he finds that happiness and a true, holistic, hope is a fundamental building
block and great determining factor of the potential for earned success. To achieve this evolution
or flourishing of a nation and a people, the development of each individual is completely
necessary as told to Brooks in his experience with the Dalai Lama. What I can especially
appreciate is that Brooks does not measure or place the value of ones success in a monetary
sense. Prime examples of this are Swami Gnanmuni, a temple administrator who has left his
well-earned affluence for a journey of enlightenment, The Men in Blue and Dallas Davis, in
particular, a man who overcame poverty and a life of crime and addiction to become a
contributing member of his society and the Dharavians, a conglomerate of families in an Indian
slum who through dedication and optimism, have begun to turn their environment into
something greater. Though vastly different circumstances, the reader is able to understand just
what Brooks intends that determining what is ones own success is true success. For Swami
Gnanmuni, success is transcendence exploring the truths that his soul so profoundly sought.
For Dallas Davis, success is pride and the realization of his potential. For the people of Dharavia,
success is building up the economy of their community through hard work. Another great value
of The Conservative Heart is the historical context. It is immensely important to understand history
well as a way of learning how the policies have evolved, their original intent and purposes as well
as from their lack of successes. At its conclusion, Brooks determines many compelling points
many of which coincide with my own personal beliefs that we should exude morale, fight for
what is intrinsically right, and work to overcome pitfalls. However, I disagree with the sentiment
of stealing all of the best arguments. This because regardless of ones political standing, sharing
common values yet having differing vision on achieving them does not constitute as stealing the
argument. Brooks exudes the ideal of achieving the conservative movement in a meaningful way
which is inspiring. He shows a side of conservatism that is seemingly lost but that has the
potential to stimulate a positive change that can revitalize America and most importantly,
Americans and the American Dream.
THE CONSERVATIVE HEART