Conservatism is the policy of making no changes and consulting your grandmother when in doubt

Conservatism is the policy of making no changes and consulting your grandmother when in doubt

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was known for his progressive policies and his belief in the power of change. However, the quote "Conservatism is the policy of making no changes and consulting your grandmother when in doubt" can still be applied to Wilson's presidency in certain aspects.

Wilson was a complex figure who believed in both progress and tradition. He was a reformer who implemented many progressive policies during his time in office, such as the creation of the Federal Reserve System and the passage of the Clayton Antitrust Act. These policies were aimed at modernizing the American economy and promoting social justice.

However, Wilson also had a conservative side to him. He was a firm believer in the Constitution and the principles of limited government. He often consulted with his advisors and sought the counsel of his predecessors, such as Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, when making important decisions. Wilson believed in the importance of tradition and the wisdom of those who came before him.

One of the most controversial aspects of Wilson's presidency was his handling of race relations. While Wilson was a progressive on many issues, he held deeply racist views and implemented policies that discriminated against African Americans. For example, he segregated the federal government and screened the racist film "The Birth of a Nation" at the White House. In this sense, Wilson's conservatism and reliance on outdated beliefs led to harmful and regressive policies.

Overall, Wilson's presidency can be seen as a mix of progressivism and conservatism. While he was a reformer who implemented many important changes, he also held onto traditional beliefs and consulted with older generations for guidance. The quote "Conservatism is the policy of making no changes and consulting your grandmother when in doubt" can be applied to Wilson's presidency as a reminder of the complexities of his leadership style.