The phrase "small c" refers to having a lack of confidence or belief in oneself, usually in contrast to someone who has a strong or "big C" confidence. Full definition
I would say incremental obduracy would be the best way to go, get us the best deal and (if you are interested...) would reflect the broadly Euro - sceptic but small c Conservative views of the British. (nextleft.org)
In 2001, physicists demonstrated such negative refraction for microwaves using a specially designed material that consisted of small c - shaped rings and little rods. (sciencemag.org)