Too Legit to Quit

How often does the phrase "that's legit" come up in conversation day to day? In my experience, a whole lot more than anyone would realize, or desire. As a guilty party who often partakes in using "hella legit," I was especially struck by, what seems to me to be, the obsession which people in the early 19th century had with legitimacy.

If legitimacy is considered the main source of stability, then referencing prior history, wouldn't a "legitimate" king like Louis XVI have a stable, wonderfully prosperous rule? Even though this is a gross oversimplification of what we've learned was a highly complex issue, I think that it was rather idealistic of Conservative diplomats to believe that legitimacy alone would possibly assure peace in Europe.

It is for this reason that Western Civilizations then mentions the three sub-pillars of Conservatism's plan for harmony: monarchy, aristocracy, and the Church. I couldn't help but consider if these still hold true.

Monarchy: In a way? This is highly debatable. "Monarch" could be replaced in some cases by "President" or any other centralized power; however, it also carries the connotation of unchecked power by birthright.

Aristocracy: Power in the hands of few? It exists, but does it lead to stability? It kind of reminds me of a teachers/students situation. Teachers have the power and make the important decisions. Students tolerate it because they are suppressed. It works, it's fairly subtle, but let's face it, the students aren't happy! Should the students be given, say...a way in which to resist, then obviously there would be a huge problem.

Church: This perhaps is the most solid. The Church, or more generally, Religion still plays a huge role in dictating morals and ethics. If doubtful, one need only reference the ongoing fight for gay rights. But is it a "mainstay[] of social and political order" (Western Civilizations, 718)? Probably not. Within smaller, homogeneous communities religion can be quite the solidifying force; however, as one zooms outward and considers a more diverse landscape, religion transforms into dividing force.

The Conservatives may have considered their ideology "hella legit," but in a modern context, it seems to lack credibility.