Meaning: This quote by Harold Rosenberg, an American writer, critic, and essayist, delves into the concept of conservatism and the challenge of translating its values into practical action. To fully grasp the meaning behind this quote, it is essential to understand the context of conservatism and the nuances of its implementation.

Conservatism, as a political and social ideology, emphasizes the preservation of traditional institutions, practices, and values. It often advocates for limited government intervention, individual responsibility, and a cautious approach to societal change. The values associated with conservatism, such as respect for tradition, fiscal prudence, and a focus on personal freedom, are what the quote refers to as the "values to which the conservative appeals."

However, the quote suggests that when these values are put into practice by individuals, they are inevitably caricatured. In other words, the actual implementation of conservative values often falls short of the idealized vision. This can be attributed to various factors, including human nature, political realities, and the complexity of translating abstract principles into concrete policies and actions.

One interpretation of this quote is that the individuals entrusted with implementing conservative values may distort or oversimplify them, leading to a distorted representation or caricature of the original ideals. This distortion can occur due to personal biases, self-interest, or a lack of understanding of the nuanced nature of conservative principles.

Moreover, the quote implies that the practical application of conservative values is susceptible to misinterpretation and manipulation. In the realm of politics, for example, conservative principles may be exploited for opportunistic purposes, leading to a superficial or distorted representation of what true conservatism entails. This phenomenon can give rise to skepticism and criticism regarding the sincerity and integrity of those who claim to uphold conservative values.

Additionally, the quote may point to the challenge of balancing ideological purity with the compromises and pragmatism required in real-world decision-making. The complexities of governance, public policy, and societal dynamics often necessitate trade-offs and adaptations that may dilute the adherence to pure conservative principles.

In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the gap between theory and practice in the realm of political ideologies. It highlights the inherent difficulty of translating abstract values and beliefs into tangible, unambiguous actions that fully reflect the original intent.

In summary, Harold Rosenberg's quote serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the challenges and limitations of putting conservative values into practice. It invites contemplation on the complexities, contradictions, and potential distortions that may arise when attempting to actualize abstract principles in the messy, real-world arena of politics and governance.

Overall, the quote provides a valuable lens through which to examine the interplay between ideology and implementation, shedding light on the perennial tension between idealized values and the messy realities of human agency and political maneuvering.