Abstract

Abstract Conservative and liberal orientations on contemporary social issues were assessed, as was acceptance or rejection of well-known social programs, issues, and legislation of the past. The data indicated that endorsement of past social programs and legislation once regarded as liberal is independent of conservative views on contemporary issues; whether categorized by their stance on contemporary issues or by political self-rating, conservative students support past liberal programs and issues. The data underscore the discontinuity between historical conservatism and contemporary conservatism.