Traditional-first

A philosophy, methodology, or approach that prioritizes and values established customs, practices, and beliefs from the past, often emphasizing the preservation and continuation of these elements. This approach typically places a strong emphasis on precedent, inherited knowledge, and established societal norms, often viewing change with caution and valuing continuity over innovation. The term implies a deliberate choice to prioritize traditional ways of doing things, sometimes resisting or modifying modern trends or developments in favor of time-tested methods. This can apply to various fields, including art, architecture, cuisine, governance, and social structures. The focus is often on upholding cultural heritage and maintaining a sense of historical connection.

Traditional-first meaning with examples

• The town council adopted a traditional-first approach to urban development. Instead of embracing contemporary architectural trends, they chose to preserve the historical facades and street layouts of the old town, ensuring the continuity of its unique character. This prioritized a connection to the town's rich history, leading to a careful balance between growth and preservation. All new constructions needed to adhere to the traditional building styles.
• In their family-run restaurant, the chef employed a traditional-first culinary philosophy. The menu featured recipes passed down through generations, using local ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. Despite pressure to incorporate modern fusion dishes, they stubbornly held onto their core values. This commitment to culinary heritage ensured the authenticity of the dishes, a core value of their traditional-first methodology.
• The newly elected political party ran on a traditional-first platform, vowing to restore traditional family values and strengthen national identity. They proposed policies to reinforce existing social structures and uphold conservative viewpoints on education and moral issues. They believed that reverting to established social norms would solve many societal problems. This signaled a return to policies that were proven to be the best in times past.
• When designing their new marketing campaign, the company used a traditional-first strategy. Instead of utilizing digital marketing, they prioritized print advertisements and direct mail, believing in the enduring power of these methods. Their approach reflected a conviction that the classic methods would resonate more effectively with their target demographic. This emphasis on the traditional approach demonstrated a belief in the established values of their older clientele.