Liberalism

Edmund Burke

Edmund Burke is a complicated figure, His political philosophy doesn't fit neatly into modern categories like "liberal" or "conservative." In his time, he was associated with the Whig Party, which had liberal tendencies, particularly in its support for constitutional government and opposition to absolute monarchy.

However, Burke is often regarded as a foundational thinker of modern conservatism due to his critique of the French Revolution in Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790). He emphasized the importance of tradition, social order, and gradual change rather than radical upheaval, which aligns more with conservative principles.

That said, Burke also supported causes that might be considered liberal, such as the American Revolution and the rights of the Irish and Indian peoples under British rule. His philosophy was deeply rooted in pragmatism and a belief in balancing liberty with order.

So, while he had liberal elements in his thought, his legacy is more often associated with conservatism. It seems that conservatives can be liberals.