Yet, six years on, the financial crisis has culminated in the triumph of economic conservatism over social redistribution, of private-sector liberalisation over public spending.

But the authors say that until now attempts to show a link between cleverness and economic conservatism have been undermined by flaws in the research.

He combined cultural, social and economic conservatism, which often helped his legislation win wide public support.

He has been described as a beacon of economic conservatism and a hero for his urban agenda.

His government's policy approach combined economic conservatism with social progressivism.