The Conners often foregrounds characters’ identities, particularly around topics like sexuality and gender identity, sometimes at the expense of natural storytelling or letting characters grow organically. Plots can feel designed to spotlight 'current issues' rather than grounded, character-driven conflict, detracting from the authentic blue-collar feel of its predecessor.

Traditional values, such as family structure and classic masculinity, are frequently subverted, with the show poking fun at or critiquing older viewpoints. Religion is largely ignored or lampooned, and morality is filtered through a decidedly modern, progressive lens, making it a poster child for cultural revisionism.

Alternative or non-progressive viewpoints among the characters are almost always presented as outmoded punchlines or obstacles to be overcome. Dialogue and conflicts rarely allow for meaningful debate, and any dissenting belief is painted as ignorant or insensitive, leading to overwhelming ideological uniformity.