The term '''Rightist''' refers to someone on the 'right' side of the political spectrum. Politics on the 'right' usually
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The term '''Rightist''' refers to someone on the 'right' side of the political spectrum. Politics on the 'right' usually imply taking positions in favor of traditional values.
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imply taking positions in favor of traditional values, patriotic defense of one's country, and support for traditional ruling classes or the rich.
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Therefore people who oppose taxes, oppose controls on business, support the military, advocate strict law and order, or oppose immigration or affirmative action are often classed as 'rightist'. 'Rightist' movements have included, at various points of time, [[christian democracy]], [[religious fundamentalism]], [[monarchism]], and [[fascism]].
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Of course, it is not obvious that there is just one dimension of political thought, so that people can unambiguously
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be classified as 'right' or 'left'. Nonetheless, the left/right distinction is widely recognized.
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[[Conservative]], [[fundamentalist]], and [[right-wing]] are three words often used as synonyms for 'rightist'.