I really want to understand the Republican party eventhough I don't agree with them. To do that, I think it would be good to know their guiding principles, assuming that they have any or that it's not just based on current trends.

For Debate:
1. What are the guiding principles or philosophy of the Republican party? Is it Conservatism? The Christian religion?
2. Any books or resources that you recommend for this topic? If so, feel free to post it in this thread!