Conservatives generally believe that government should:

The belief that government should provide only for defense and little else aligns with conservative ideology, which emphasizes a limited role for government in the lives of individuals. Conservatives often advocate for a minimalistic approach to government, focusing on maintaining order, national security, and protecting individual liberties rather than expanding governmental influence into other areas such as economic regulation or social welfare.

This perspective is rooted in the idea that a smaller government is more efficient, less intrusive, and allows for greater personal responsibility and freedom. By prioritizing defense, conservatives argue that the primary function of government is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, allowing individuals the autonomy to manage their own affairs in areas like the economy and social issues without excessive government intervention.

The reasoning for other choices may contrast with this belief. Guaranteeing individual rights, while a key principle, is generally seen by conservatives as best protected through limited government rather than extensive government guarantees. The idea of completely abolishing government is more radical and does not reflect mainstream conservative thought, while heavy intervention in economic affairs is primarily associated with more liberal or progressive ideologies. Thus, the focus on a limited governmental role, particularly in terms of defense, is a hallmark of conservative philosophy.