Why is the Reformation Considered "Conservative":

a) Anti Neo-Classical/Scholastic: Opposed to Scholastic application and study of Greco-Roman texts. For example: Anti-Copernicus: should read the bible, not the stars and Aristotle (a Greek), to understand the nature of the universe (Note that Catholic church was teaching Copernicus' (1473-1573) mathematical methods, despite their geocentric implications, but by the time of Galileo (1564-1642) the Church responds to conservative criticism of Scholastic principles); should find all Truth thru Faith, not Reason. 

b) Anti-Neo-Classical/Humanist or Anti “Neo-Paganism”: Opposed the re-emerging Greek belief the actions of the body naturally and properly expressed the humanity of the soul (see Michelangelo for example; anti humanist original goodness of man (vs. original sin).

c) Anti-Franciscan poverty:  Opposed to the emerging Franciscan-Catholic belief that adherents should imitate Christ and avoid worldly possessions. Instead see wealth as evidence of God's favor. (note that the Vatican was also of course opposed to this radical idea; all of Francis' original followers were burned alive; yet the idea could not be so easily squelched)

d) Pro-Aristocracy and Anti-Egalitarian/Democratic:  While Protestants challenged traditional Catholic power structures, the movement normally also maintained close allegiances to relevant national powers; power is not taken from the Papal Church-State to be given to "the people" but rather it is given to emerging Protestant Church-States.  Henry VIII is established as the head of the New, Anglican church, Luther will align himself with the German aristocracy, and Calvin will establish an actual Puritan theocracy, (serving as the model for soon to emerge Puritan/pilgrim colonies).