"So are you left or right?"

The author reflects on the absence of a true conservative disposition in contemporary politics, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of conservatism. They argue that current political parties mislabel themselves as conservative while failing to embody its principles. The piece critiques the simplistic binary of left versus right, advocating for a more complex political discourse that recognizes the importance of tradition and skepticism. The author draws on Michael Oakeshott's concept of the 'Trimmer' to illustrate the need for balance and moderation in political action, warning against the dangers of ideological extremes. Ultimately, they express a longing for a genuine conservative approach that acknowledges human imperfection and the complexities of political life.