Equality

The basis of conservatism as practiced by 21st century Republicans is the simple premise that all Americans are equal at birth and have equal opportunities, ergo, anyone who is unable to succeed is a worthless loser with only himself to blame.

If this single organizing principle is shown to be false, it creates massive problems for Republicans in terms of their social agenda, economic policies, and political objectives. If the foundation crumbles, the whole structure collapses.