The central conservative truth is that it is culture, not

"The central conservative truth is that it is culture, not politics, that determines the success of a society. The central liberal truth is that politics can change a culture and save it from itself." These words from Daniel Patrick Moynihan carry with them a profound understanding of the delicate interplay between culture and politics. In his reflection, Moynihan presents two truths that are often at odds with one another, but which, when considered together, offer a more complete picture of the forces that shape the rise and fall of societies. The conservative truth emphasizes the power of culture—the values, beliefs, and traditions that define a society’s very soul—while the liberal truth underscores the potential of politics—the laws, institutions, and systems that can alter the course of history and influence the cultural fabric of a nation.

In the ancient world, the relationship between culture and politics was a subject of much contemplation. Plato, in his Republic, explored the idea that the structure of society and the values of its citizens were intrinsically tied to the political system in place. He believed that a just society could only exist if its leaders were philosophers—those who understood the deepest truths of human nature and the universe. In this sense, Plato saw politics as a means to shape and elevate culture, guiding citizens toward higher ideals. Similarly, the great philosopher Aristotle saw the polis (city-state) as a place where both culture and politics could work in harmony, though he acknowledged that the prevailing culture of a society often determined the success or failure of its political institutions. Both Plato and Aristotle believed that culture and politics were intertwined, but each placed different emphasis on which had the greater influence on the well-being of society.

In the Roman Empire, the relationship between culture and politics was also central to its long-lasting power. The Romans understood that culture, with its focus on tradition, law, and military discipline, was essential for the cohesion of the empire. Yet, Roman politics also played a significant role in shaping the empire's identity, especially as it absorbed diverse cultures from its conquered lands. The Roman Senate and later emperors understood that their ability to govern effectively required not only military power, but also an understanding of cultural integration and the ability to adapt laws to the needs of the diverse peoples under their rule. While the Roman culture of law and order helped maintain stability, the political reforms brought about by figures like Julius Caesar and Augustus were key in shaping the empire's success, allowing it to endure for centuries.

However, Moynihan’s quote brings us to the present moment, where culture and politics often clash in the modern age. The conservative truth that culture determines the success of a society is grounded in the idea that a society’s core values—its moral fabric, its shared beliefs, and its way of life—are what ultimately bind it together. A society that has strong cultural cohesion—that upholds its traditions, family values, and community bonds—is more likely to thrive, regardless of its political system. In this view, politics can only go so far in shaping the destiny of a people. Without a shared sense of purpose and identity, no political system, no matter how well-crafted, can ensure long-term success.

Yet, the liberal truth, as Moynihan points out, suggests that politics has the power to reshape culture and even save society from its own destructive tendencies. This truth is rooted in the belief that laws, policies, and political movements can be catalysts for social change. History is replete with examples where political intervention has altered the course of culture for the better. Take, for instance, the civil rights movement in the United States. While the culture of segregation and racial discrimination had been ingrained in American society for centuries, political action—through landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965—revolutionized the way race relations were understood in the country. Politics challenged and reshaped the cultural attitudes that had supported segregation, ultimately paving the way for a more just and inclusive society.

Another historical example can be seen in India, where the British colonial rule created a political system that was at odds with the deeply rooted cultural practices of its people. Yet, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, political action became the driving force behind a cultural revolution—the fight for independence from colonial rule was not just political, but a fight to restore the dignity and sovereignty of a culture that had been oppressed. Gandhi used nonviolent resistance as a tool to reawaken the Indian people’s sense of national pride and cultural identity, proving that political action could indeed transform the cultural landscape of a nation.

The lesson in Moynihan’s words is one of balance and interdependence. Culture and politics are not separate forces; they are deeply intertwined, each influencing and shaping the other. As individuals, we must recognize that our cultural values are the bedrock upon which our political systems rest. Yet, we must also acknowledge that politics—when shaped by the right intentions—can be a powerful force for positive cultural change. Our duty is to engage in both the cultural and political spheres, ensuring that our values and beliefs guide our political actions, while also understanding that through political change, we can strive for a culture that reflects justice, equality, and human dignity.

As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, let us remember the wisdom of Moynihan’s words. Let us work to preserve the values that strengthen our communities, while also recognizing the power of politics to challenge outdated cultural norms and create a future where justice and unity can thrive. The success of any society depends not just on its cultural foundation, but on its ability to adapt, reform, and grow—to use political action as a tool to shape a culture that serves the common good.