Definition of Conservatism

The above link, the Mission Statement from William F Buckley, is a little dated but an excellent starting point.

What is a conservative? A conservative is one who interprets the Constitution to enjoin individual freedom, small government and a strong homeland defense. However, a good conservative must also ask where we failed in the past: by denying that same liberty to people who were dragged in as slaves, for example, and how we can ensure that we live up to our own highest standards.