  It is also important not to exaggerate Rehberg's traditionalism.  His insistence on the indispenable role of tradition in political life was one of the characteristic features of his conservatism.  It is important to add, though, that his faith in tradition was not that of a reactionary.  He never went so far as to hold that custom and tradition are sacred.  He admitted, indeed insisted, that we should change custom and tradition if they become oppressive or inconvenient in changing  circumstances.[53] 