Why people become Republicans

The wonderful Nate Silver penned this little anecdote about why people become Republicans. In short, leaving the CPAC, the Metro system rips him off and suddenly he realized how fertile soil for an anti-government message is made every day.

But there are two things at work at the CPAC, conservatism the concept, and conservatism the brand. The former is a philosophy with its merits and faults that nearly anyone could assess objectively if so inclined. The latter is what explains why thousands of young people wore suits to hear Ann Coultere describe liberals as if they are alien race and not merely people with whom they differ.

So what is the appeal of the conservative brand? In a hyphenated word: self-aggrandizement. It isn't so much about small government as it is big you. Are you righteous? This brand is for you. More American than the average person? Grab a pamphlet. More deserving of that job the immigrant is doing? Come on down. Do you like exclusive organizations such as country clubs and private dinner clubs? Then you deserve a brand like this. High earner? Let everyone know by proselytizing your conservatism. Maybe your equity is with the Lord? No one separates the saints from the sinners like conservatism. Most patriotic person on your block? Grab a lapel pin and show those Commies.

That isn't an observation about conservatism in and of itself, just merely the brand and its appeal. Whether conservatism is the answer to America's problems or not is beside the point. By its very nature, conservatism will always appeal to people searching for a way to put themselves on a pedestal. So why wouldn't you wear a suit to attend CPAC?