In many a way I am a skeptic. My strong adheherence to the efficacy of scientific rationalism makes this a natural position. However I differ from the strong skeptic positions advocated by Messrs Shermer, Carroll, Randi etc in that I believe in the presence of the God (Ein Sof) essence that transcends but encompasses all that there is. I reconcile these two beliefs (scientific rationalism and my own theism) with an understanding that the Ein Sof could but doesn't break the rules of physics. Asuch, I reject all of the paranormal (a position that was not the case when I was younger) and cast much doubt on New Age, Alternative Medicine, most conspiracy theories and other avenues of supposed reasoning that fail to measure up to the stringencies of critical thought.

Any thoughts.. Is skepticism a key ingredient of Conservatism?

Actually this is in the wrong forum, most likely just another Poli topic.
But to answer your question, no.
It plays only a very tiny part, I'd say a reliance on proven method.

Quote from: BurkesGhost on August 20, 2013, 07:35:14 AM
In many a way I am a skeptic. My strong adheherence to the efficacy of scientific rationalism makes this a natural position. However I differ from the strong skeptic positions advocated by Messrs Shermer, Carroll, Randi etc in that I believe in the presence of the God (Ein Sof) essence that transcends but encompasses all that there is. I reconcile these two beliefs (scientific rationalism and my own theism) with an understanding that the Ein Sof could but doesn't break the rules of physics. Asuch, I reject all of the paranormal (a position that was not the case when I was younger) and cast much doubt on New Age, Alternative Medicine, most conspiracy theories and other avenues of supposed reasoning that fail to measure up to the stringencies of critical thought.

Any thoughts.. Is skepticism a key ingredient of Conservatism?

My approach to Science is similar to that of my approach to tradesmen....excellent within their own space. Relig is very different...does a plumber say "there is no God" because when he looks down a pipe he only sees blackness???

Karl Popper has it about right imo.

Greg