They are a priori, meaning that they start with their ideological conclusions and then try to build facts to support those conclusions. "Conservatives" therefore will not be swayed by logic or empirical evidence.

They also do not value "truth" in the way we do. They have defined their own "truth" so it really doesn't matter to them that they are lying. If you already know the truth then what difference does it make how you get to it?

"Conservatives" aren't really conservative. Conservatism is cautious and incremental, based on tradition and history. "Conservatives" are radical, revisionist, reactionary, and reckless. In other words "conservatives" are fascist.

I mean, "Conservative Revolutionary", come on...

But there is a legitimate argument for being a priori. At least there is one when it comes to science.

But these "conservatives" are over the top batshit crazy and they are decidedly anti-intellectual. In fact that's their strength. Half of the population has an IQ under 100 so intellectual things like thought and reason are not available to them. Instead they rely on their emotions and gut level, folksy wisdom. "Conservatives" are better at appealing to such prejudices than we are.

RW types like to lie.

We have had this debate many times here at DU over the years. I keep coming back to the fact that half the population has an IQ under 100. No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people.

I think we are dealing with a large group of profoundly stupid people who are being exploited by a few liars at the top.

The ticket of the 'Phants are quite intelligent enough to know that they are lying to to the idiots. If idiots repeat the lie without knowing it is a lie, their culpability is minor. At least, minor when compared to that of the Ryans, McConnells, Romneys etc. who lie with malice aforethought.

They are responsible for having their prejudices in the first place. Low intelligence in and of itself isn't sufficient to excuse the rank and file. Extremely low intelligence, yes. I don't know where the break point is exactly but I suppose it's around 80.

... that with greed and hunger for power