Liberal or Conservative, Which are you, and Why?

1. 80

   jiberishposted 14 years ago

   Forget about your party affiliation for a minute and consider your upbringing, and your present views, are you more conservative in your thinking, more liberal, and why?   How does this effect your take on the current happenings in Washington. I came from a very strict back ground, I lean towards conservatism. YOU?

   replyreport
   1. 62

      Daniel Carterposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Oh dear. This seems a bit like a confessional, doesn't it??
      
      I was raised very, very conservative. In fact, so conservative, that it's said that if Jesus Christ ran on a liberal ticket, he'd lose.
      
      However, as I have grown and raised kids, I have become more liberal. That being said, I find no solace in any political or religious affiliation. I'm just not a joiner. I guess I take too much joy in taking pot shots at everyone. LOL

      replyreport
      1. 80

         jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         You don't have to have a party affiliation to be concerned with the economy, the things our children are being taught in school etc.

         replyreport
      2. 56

         atomswifeyposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         you are too much Daniel You really got me laghing on this one

         replyreport
   2. 71

      dahoglundposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Until a few years ago I considered myself a liberal and generally voted Democrat. When i found that the Democrats were tied to special interest, especially the abortion lobby I changed my vote.I would still consider myself a JFK liberal.

      replyreport
2. 62

   Mishaposted 14 years ago

   None, I think for myself

   replyreport
   1. 60

      Jane@CMposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      I'm with Misha on this.

      replyreport
3. 57

   tobacco loverposted 14 years ago

   I am a little of both.

   replyreport
4. 0

   Leta Sposted 14 years ago

   I have leaned 'left' since the age of 13 or 14 when I wrote my first, basically, political essays and read "Fahrenheit 451" and "Brave New World."  Also Shakespeare.  I remember these works and what they meant to me at the time to this day.
   
   However, I do not feel that the representation of liberals and conservatives on Hubpages these days is realistic...it kind of just seems like a joke shadow-play of stereotypes...extremist and full of vitriol, with many who seem disenfranchised and vocal...THAT being their main cause, and only that.  I actually appreciate the views and input of some conservatives (which are different than neocons), ie, one of my favorite authors, Andrew Sullivan, is a conservative.  Unfortunately, I don't see much to respect among them recently...here, in the media, or on the national stage (at least not the squeaky wheels sucking up all the media-play).
   
   I do not really classify myself as a liberal, either, actually, but as a libertarian socialist...which may genuinely be something of a moderate.

   replyreport
5. 70

   lrohnerposted 14 years ago

   I consider myself an Independent and will vote with whoever makes the most sense.

   replyreport
   1. 61

      VENUGOPAL SIVAGNAposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Most sensible observation. My opinion is the same.

      replyreport
6. 80

   jiberishposted 14 years ago

   I am a conservative, maybe it has come with age, I think on my own, and by conservative, I actually mean abiding by some rules and laws, principles and morality.  I am not a free for all person, even though I believe that each person has the right to think, believe and act how they choose, as long as I am not forced to abide by their beliefs. 
   
   I don't believe abortion should be used as birth control, I dislike the Gay Pride parades, especially when children are dragged to go see it. etc...

   replyreport
7. 59

   Colebabieposted 14 years ago

   Political party aside... as the OP requested... my thoughts and upbringing are more liberal. In the sense that liberal means:
   
   - free from prejudice or bigotry; tolerant
   - open-minded or tolerant, esp. free of or not bound by traditional or conventional ideas, values, etc.
   - favorable to progress or reform
   - favoring or permitting freedom of action, esp. with respect to matters of personal belief or expression

   replyreport
   1. 80

      jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Very nicely put, however, my tolerance has a short leash.  I am not in favor of prejudice or bigoty in reguards to race, religion either.

      replyreport
8. 80

   jiberishposted 14 years ago

   I guess this Forum is a little threatening.

   replyreport
9. 59

   Colebabieposted 14 years ago

   People don't like labels. Even though they label things/people all the time. They don't like labeling themselves... too constricting.

   replyreport
   1. 80

      jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Actually I wasn't looking for a politcal affiliation..  but yeah I see what you mean.

      replyreport
   2. 89

      Rochelle Frankposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      So you are an anti-labelist?  I'm ok with that.

      replyreport
      1. 59

         Colebabieposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         Haha.

         replyreport
10. 59

    Colebabieposted 14 years ago

    Not even political affiliation.  Liberal or conservative ideas... too constricting, only two choices. So rather than pick one, they say that those terms don't apply to them because blah blah blah. Which yes they are right. Labels are lame.

    replyreport
    1. 80

       jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       I agree that labels are lame, and political parties aside, one is either conservative or liberal in their thinking and their actions and beliefs.
       
       I said earlier that I am conservative, but have not always been.  However, and this may shock some of you, I am for legalizing pot.  I personally have smoked it once, and did not care for it, but, in a business sence, if we legalized it, packaged it and sold it over the counter like cigarettes, for 21 and older, we would be kiling two birds.
       
       So, although I am conservative, there are some things I would agree with the liberals on.

       replyreport
11. 60

    Ron Montgomeryposted 14 years ago

    Extremely conservative.  I have a very narrow and rigid philosophy that does not change under any circumstances.  I refuse to view any media that conflict with my viewpoint and I love my country while hating most of it's occupants.
    
    Have a nice day commie.

    replyreport
    1. 80

       earnestshubposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       It's always nice to see your gentle and soothing words Ron.

       replyreport
    2. 60

       Davinagirl3posted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Ron, you are a ray of sunshine in a world of darkness.  You should just post threads all day long.  I have been sooooo bored today and this just brightened my mood.  Good Day, Sir!  Oh! and I hate Pinkos too!

       replyreport
12. 76

    Mighty Momposted 14 years ago

    This is a very interesting an open-ended (and seeminly open-minded) way to address this issue. I agree that all too often here on HP, esp. the Forums, people get labeled without the opportunity to explain their true positions. It's always "us" vs. "them." But of course we all know that politics is a continuum.
    
    In keeping with my generally contraray nature, I am socially liberal and fiscally conservative:-). Could be the result of growing up with a New Hampshire Democrat and a NY Republican.
    I deff go not believe that the way to solve problems is to unilaterally raise taxes or throw a government program at it!!
    
    Thanks for hosting this Forum, Jiberish. MM

    replyreport
    1. 89

       Rochelle Frankposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       I agree that assigning labels is not a way to solve  political (or other) problems. Unfortunately, no one can be elected without being assigned a label (or political party) because people do not think independently.

       replyreport
13. 76

    Mighty Momposted 14 years ago

    Ron -- you are a classic patriot. Or nationalist. I get those confused

    replyreport
14. 61

    Valerie Fposted 14 years ago

    I'd say I'm pretty firmly in the middle. I believe traditional values are important in helping us all do our part to maintain our society and ensure everyone, no matter how different we may be, has a place of some importance in it.
    
    However, I also see that the status quo in this great but imperfect nation sometimes still conflicts with traditional values like defining life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as inalienable human rights. So I do think some change to the status quo can be a good thing.
    
    Just not change for change's sake.

    replyreport
15. 0

    girly_girl09posted 14 years ago

    I had a pretty liberal upbringing (even did some campaigning for Clinton/Gore at a very young age hehehe) but I now identify myself as a conservative. Some may call me a moderate, but I'm definitely very conservative on most issues (private enterprise, fiscal responsibility, border security, limited government in our lives, constitutional rights, TRUE equality, etc.) I'm more of a moderate when it comes to social issues like abortion, gay marriage, and a few select animal rights & environmental issues. Wait...I sound so hateful, narrow-minded and completely uneducated!
    
    Based upon my political experiences, resources and contacts, I couldn't imagine being anything but a conservative. I appreciate the fact that being labeled a conservative these days has almost become a perpetuated disgrace, but I won't apologize for the places I've been, the people I've met and the things that I have seen first-hand. Because of these (very much appreciated experiences and opportunities), I am a conservative.
    
    Anyways, if I was not involved in the political realm, I probably would be a liberal. Much to (over 85%) of my New England democratic family's dismay, they get to listen about my experiences with conservative politics at Thanksgiving and Christmas.....muahahaha!!!!

    replyreport
16. 62

    Lisa HWposted 14 years ago

    My mother was a Republican who didn't always vote Republican.  My father was a Democrat who wasn't above occasionally voting Republican.  Other than which presidential candidate they voted for, there was no talk about politics to us.  The values they tried to teach us were the same - and that may be worth noting in this time when people so often forget that Liberals and Conservatives often do share a lot of the "basic values".  It was my father who talked more about "the state of the country" and "where things are headed".  Of course, I was a kid in the days before Democrats were so often seen as "not being for the middle-class" (the way they are so often seen today).  (When my husband and I were younger we were among the couples "taxed down" from a very nice income level, reached through hard work and education, down to an income level where we will still had to do a lot of "penny-counting"; and still had to think about whether the second car, which wasn't a new one, was an "unnecessary luxury".)
    
    ("Ok, Lisa/Self, be brave here and say it."):  I'm confessing that I'm a Conservative (not that some people who know me haven't guessed that already), who doesn't belong to any religion, does think early abortions should remain legal, hates guns and hunting but thinks people should have the right to own them, and thinks a lot of Conservatives are often too quick to be self-righteous about people who need assistance (as well being ill-informed when they believe "all anyone has to do is pick himself up by the bootstraps" - because it's not that simple for a lot of people).  In spite of some disagreements with what is seen as "Conservative thinking", however, I am very much in favor of keeping government out of people's personal business as much as possible (because I've seen the mediocrity, mess, and destruction of lives that government agencies are so often guilty of).  I'm also a Conservative who isn't particularly fond of some of the things large corporations do.
    
    I suppose, because my father was a WWII veteran, because my mother lost her first, young husband in WWII, and because I was raised in a time and place (Boston area) where history was so emphasized; I lean more toward looking toward preserving the things that have always been right with America (rather than focusing on the things that are wrong and seeming to be willing to sacrifice a little too much of what has always been right with America in favor of things that, to me, don't look like the right way to fix what is wrong with America).  I don't think either parent really influenced me directly.
    
    ("Whew, Lisa/Self, you did it.  You confessed.  Hopefully you won't see yourself unfanned by a few hundred people tomorrow."    )

    replyreport
    1. 80

       jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Thank you for sharing that, I'm sure it took a lot.  The reason I wanted to start this forum is to show that if we place our political 'labels' aside, many of us would agree on many things.
       
       I was not always a conservative thinker, I was a rebel, rebelled against everything, I have to admit I even voted for Perot, but experiencing life, and hopefully learning a little, I realized that there are some things I just can't accept. I appreciate everyones post.

       replyreport
17. 84

    kerrygposted 14 years ago

    In my personal life I'm more conservative than a lot of conservatives, but politically I'm quite liberal. On social issues, I'm libertarian - I think the government should stay out of what happens between consenting adults and I'm strongly pro-choice, feminist, and pro-LGBT rights among other things.
    
    Fiscally, I am conservative to the extent that I think the government should be as small and fiscally responsible as possible, but my definition of small in particular is very different from self-described conservatives! For example, I do believe the state has a responsibility to ensure that all citizens have access to a minimum standard of living, including education and healthcare. It's simple common sense to me - an uneducated, underfed, underhoused, and sick populace does no favors to anyone, least of all to our country! I honestly can't understand why so many people would rather watch the US become a third world country than pay taxes.
    
    I also believe the government has an obligation to protect (via thoughtful regulation and enforcement) human and environmental health from organizations and individuals who would throw both under the bus in pursuit of short term profit. And I define health rather broadly, including both blatant Love Canal type poisonings and the kind of rampant financial abuses that destroyed so many people's pensions over the last few years.

    replyreport
    1. 82

       RooBeeposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Beautiful and sensible. I think I have some kind of girl-crush on you, KerryG. I would only add: "yeah, what she said."

       replyreport
18. 0

    rednckwmnposted 14 years ago

    I am still trying to learn what the heck is going on. I was raised by religious fanatics, they did note vote cuz god is in charge. i had to leave the room if politics were being taught, even history. I would have been kicked out for saying the pledge, its idol worship, god hates that....so, i guess, im new here?

    replyreport
    1. 80

       jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Growing up in such an environment would be very hard.  I guess once you went on your own you had a lot to sort out. Good Luck. Thanks for sharing.

       replyreport
19. 0

    Madame Xposted 14 years ago

    In the current political environment it is 'certain death' to use any form of label, so I'll just state my beliefs. Small government - the less government involvement in my life the better - the Constitution is the law of the land - fiscal responsibility at all levels of government, which includes low taxation - accountability of government to the people - term limits, none of this 'career politician stuff' - and small government.
    
    Oh yeah, and I think I left one out - small government. And as far as what anybody wants to do, none of it is the government's business, unless it harms another.

    replyreport
20. 59

    readytoescapeposted 14 years ago

    I am a Constitutional Conservative and damn proud of it.
    Label me baby.

    replyreport
21. 0

    cosetteposted 14 years ago

    i think i could be labeled as a moderate. then again i might even be a libertarian. i guess what i am saying is i am somewhere between liberal and conservative and believe people do best without the government telling them what to do.

    replyreport
22. 82

    LondonGirlposted 14 years ago

    In the UK, it's not a dichotomy like this. I'm both liberal and conservative.

    replyreport
    1. 86

       livelongerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Yes, the Tories don't pander to the hyperreligious, and "liberal" retains that classical economic-freedom meaning.
       
       Quite a bit different on this side of the pond. Ironic that "liberal" has become synonymous with "socialist" among a large swathe of conservatives here!

       replyreport
23. 70

    lrohnerposted 14 years ago

    I've always called myself an Independent. I don't vote along party lines, and choose to go with whoever and whatever makes the most sense.

    replyreport
24. 80

    earnestshubposted 14 years ago

    Australia is not very extreme in political terms. We remain mostly in the middle ground, apart from a few extremists we are a bit of both i think.

    replyreport
25. 86

    livelongerposted 14 years ago

    I'm socially liberal, fiscally moderate (slightly left). The Democratic party these days is fairly strongly aligned with my values.
    
    I was raised in a secular household where nonetheless being a good person was the most important thing (in contrast to the case in a lot of religious households...). My parents voted Republican until the early 90s, when the party of limited government intrusion into people's lives turned on its head. I came out to them then and they're very pro-LGBT rights. Now they wouldn't consider voting GOP because of the party's stance against gay equality alone.
    
    My first time voting was for Clinton and I've voted Democratic since. I could hypothetically imagine voting for a Republican but here in the U.S. things have become so polarized - and the GOP almost completely composed of right-wing religious weirdos - that things would have to change significantly for that to be the case in the real world.

    replyreport
26. 59

    Becca's Blogposted 14 years ago

    Why I am a liberal
    There has been an awful lot of talk about socialism lately. How dark our society would be if it took on a socialist bent. Most of this talk is coming from white economically secure males and is aimed at already paranoid white evangelical Christians who think Obama is the anti Christ and are waiting for the rapture. Yes, the mentally ill masses of fanatics are being riled to disrupt informational town halls on health care and to keep their children home from school so they don’t have to hear the uppity black man, who happens to be our President tell them to not drop out of school. Evangelical Christianity in all of it many uniquely American forms is the opiate of people. These are the people, who have long ago abandoned common sense and decency to drink the Kool-Aid of uneducated theological hucksters that appear on their television sets.
    
    Well, I have finally, concluded that is decent ethical folks in this country, who do not happen to be white upper middle class males, yet want to have consistent justice then our country need a little dose of socialism. My own personal life has been one unending nightmare of being conned and denied justice on the most basic human levels. This happened when I gave up the protection of being married to a white male from an upper middle class family. Yes, the law says he should support his children. His well connected family of lawyers and judges has pretty much made sure that never happened. Thank god this country has had enough socialist bent to have programs I qualified for to help me feed and educate my children. My children have a socialist bent, because they know who buttered their bread literally. It was food stamps, not their father from an upper middle class family.
    
    Anyone who is poor in this country knows there is little justice for them.
    We are at the mercy on slum lords, crooked doctors, lawyers, and ministers. We do not have money for justice and only occasionally see it. I moved out of a rental that had not heat, because the landlord had not used the money that was included in the rent to pay the gas bill. For three months; I lived without heat or hot water. I had electric so I boiled water on the stove so my kids could bath. Yes, I went to our local health department. I had to bag the inspector to come out to view my house. See it was in “that part of town” and he really had no motivation to come. When he came all he could say is a least I did not have” rats.” He felt I should be grateful that the landlord fixed the toilet that had been broken for two weeks. He told me he could not give me a copy of anything because he found nothing of significance. He went on to say his department “looked down” on giving people paper work for court. He did give me a copy of my own complaint.
    
    Then there was the property manager. He was a used car salesman type, who used to enter my house at will requesting extra money besides the rent. He always had the nerve to touch me when he spoke to me. This good Christian man gave me a electric space heater to “warm “the house. The house was half of a huge Victorian double. The heater only heated the living room.
    
    A friend told me to file a complaint with the State Attorney General’s Office.. I did and I never heard back.  Eventually, a friend leant me the money to move into a rent controlled apartment complex. In my town these are the nicest apartments. They are clean and well kept. Gee, that horrible government comes to the rescue again.. I thought all was well; until today when I get served that the landlord is suing me for moving out of the heatless slum apartment. My neighbor saw me to get served and just laughed.  I told my neighbor I have the copy of my complaint to the health department. I tried to correct the situation before I left. Surely I would prevail in court I told my neighbor. The landlord was breaking the law not providing heat I was paying for in my rent? Then he told me his girlfriend had rented a property from the same people and the landlord let that property be taken back by the bank. So she did not pay her rent to the landlord because the bank now held the property. The same landlord took her to court for non payment of rent. He got a judgment for the rent on property he no longer owned. I asked, “That is so illegal how that happened?” He replied the small claims court judge is good friends with the landlord. They protested the judgment, but being new to this country at the time they were afraid to let the matter go to far. Hispanics in our town are regularly stopped by police; for doing things like walking down the street in broad daylight .Their decision did not surprise me. I am hoping I get a different judge.
    
    A few offer facts I want to share to drive home my point. The property manager brought his bible one time when he came for a little extra money for supplies to fix the toilet. He wanted to pray with me because he knew I was “different”. I suspect the few butches he had seen leave my house gave me away.  He seems clueless that he is working for a slum lord .I can pretty much figure he has no health insurance for his children. I guess he does not care .I am sure he think his minister he tithes his meager wages to can just lay hand on them and they will be, “all better”. Religion has blinded people like his to all reason and common sense when it comes to issues like health care.
    
    Now my long winded tale has a point. On paper there is justice. We have laws that are supposed to protect everyone rights. In reality the poor have no real rights. There are times our economic and justice system decides to throw them some crumbs. I want justice consistently for all Americans.  All justice, here where I live is dependant on color, economic status and geographical location in reality.  A socialist bent in our political system just might give some of us a fighting chance at a decent life.

    replyreport
    1. 59

       tksenseiposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       That's a lie

       replyreport
       1. 59

          Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          It is hardly a lie. Yes, sometimes poor people get their due, but many times they do not. There are no consistent safety nets in our society for people who fall on hard times due to illness or even just bad luck. Try suing someone rich if you are poor. Sure you can get on of those attorney's off TV who will take your case and keep the large percentage themselves. They only take your case if you have money to pay a doctor or some other expert to put your "evidence" in order. Try having to money to counter sue in small claims court. It is not a lot of money to people who are not poor. Try having to have transportation to show up. If you don't the judge finds for the person who has money to show up. Explain the why there are more men of color in are jails then in our colleges. Explain middle class fathers who pay a pitance in child support because they hid their income in other relatives names, and their children live below poverty level. You sir are simply naive.

          replyreport
          1. 80

             jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

             Wow. It took me some time to digest everything you wrote, but here goes.  It sounds like you have fallen on hard times, which we all do at some point in our lives, but then in your bitterness you bring race into it.  It would have been just as sad a story without injecting racism.  I too would be bitter, and have been, but no matter what side of the color spectrum you're one, bad things happen.

             replyreport
             1. 59

                Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                OmG this is so funny . Fact People of Color are convicted of more crimes and live below below poverty level in disportion to to the numbers they make up in are general population. Most experts know institutional racism is respondsible. Take a freshmen socialogy course and stop listening to Glen Beck.
                
                
                Fact I am a white raised upper middle class descendant of English , Swiss, French ,and Germans all of my known paternal lines were here before 1750. Pi Beta Phi , Grandmothers DAR on both sides. Both Great Grandmothers educated at Oberlin .Great Great Grandmother an 1840 Graduate of that institution.  Most living family members have some sort of Graduate degree. Unlikely I fell on hard times and blamed it on race. LMFAO. I was just stating accepted facts from "them scary liberal folk" who actually read books .Poverty created by unfettered capitalism eventually will bring down smug and no doubt pedigreed Conservatives as well. However, ever have never known those with a notable pedigree to be connected that closely to the trailer park religion  that seems to dominate the Republican  Party. Maybe they are just out in the political cold since the death of Buckley.

                replyreport
                1. 0

                   A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                   "Take a freshmen socialogy course and stop listening to Glen Beck." The fact that black men are in prison at a disproportionate number to their population is because they commit a disproportionate amount of crime! Now it may be because they are poor and that leads them to commit crime but it is hardly a good reason.
                   
                   I don't know what a sociology class is going to teach but real life experience has taught me that what I just said is true, if Glenn Beck agrees then he is obviously smarter than the college professor who is lying to his/her students! Feel free to dispute my claim but it won't make you right.

                   replyreport
                   1. 59

                      Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                      Fact I have had almost 20yrs of living in low income mixed neighborhood. I know the police in  my town stop men of color for walking down the street in broad day light because well you tell me. I have had the socialogy class and the life experince of seeing racism  in out my front door every day. So I just am as right as rain and it is as real as evolution. Oh  i forgot the magical mystery Jesus told you evolution like racism is not real ... so  I guess I am wrong.

                      replyreport
                      1. 0

                         A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                         I don't know anything about Jesus and never mentioned him. You can think that you are correct but by your handling of my post I just see you as a typical name calling liberal because your "facts" were challenged!

                         replyreport
                         1. 59

                            Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                            replyreport
                            1. 0

                               A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                               Yeah? We already went through this!

                               replyreport
       2. 59

          Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          It is hardly a lie. Yes, sometimes poor people get their due, but many times they do not. There are no consistent safety nets in our society for people who fall on hard times due to illness or even just bad luck. Try suing someone rich if you are poor. Sure you can get on of those attorney's off TV who will take your case and keep the large percentage themselves. They only take your case if you have money to pay a doctor or some other expert to put your "evidence" in order. Try having to money to counter sue in small claims court. It is not a lot of money to people who are not poor. Try having to have transportation to show up. If you don't the judge finds for the person who has money to show up. Explain the why there are more men of color in are jails then in our colleges. Explain middle class fathers who pay a pitance in child support because they hid their income in other relatives names, and their children live below poverty level. You sir are simply naive.

          replyreport
          1. 70

             imadorkposted 14 years agoin reply to this

             what she said!

             replyreport
          2. 59

             tksenseiposted 14 years agoin reply to this

             Which is true for everyone. You are just engaging in hysterical, emo hyperbole and it is shallow and meaningless.

             replyreport
    2. 0

       Leta Sposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       You've got guts, lady. 

       replyreport
27. 70

    imadorkposted 14 years ago

    Independent.  Anyone that chooses one party over another is a complete idiot IMHO.  Think for yourselves!!!  Don't let the party choose your battles for you!!!

    replyreport
    1. 59

       tksenseiposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       You're missing the point.

       replyreport
       1. 70

          imadorkposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          No I am not...you are.  Read my comment again.  It is right there above.

          replyreport
28. 59

    tksenseiposted 14 years ago

    I read your comments the first time. Party affiliation does NOT mean you are not thinking, it means you ARE thinking in a practical manner. It means you (if you are an informed voter) are making a choice that in a parlimentary system is made for you after you vote. No one is choosing your battles for you. YOU are choosing your battles by associating with a party and working to influence that party's platform.

    replyreport
    1. 70

       imadorkposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Why associate with a party if you are thinking for yourself?  Why must you associate with a party then?

       replyreport
       1. 80

          jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          If you are a thinker, and you are a voter, then you have to affilliate with one of the parties. You are not running the country by yourself.

          replyreport
       2. 59

          tksenseiposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          I'm guessing you're a soccer fan. If you can play soccer, why have a team? Just play by yourself. You can win that way, right?

          replyreport
29. 59

    tksenseiposted 14 years ago

    Ok kid, good luck. Go have a swim.

    replyreport
    1. 70

       imadorkposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       I'm swimming!  I'm swimming!

       replyreport
30. 80

    jiberishposted 14 years ago

    Becca, you gave us quite a nice long look into parts of your life, with a little added in for drama, but how does that explain why you are liberal in your views?

    replyreport
31. 0

    sneakorocksolidposted 14 years ago

    I used to be quite liberal, growing up in Colorado it was the thing to be. We were having a blast partying doing what ever we felt like, mostly skiing and hanging out in the mountains. I spent some time in Boulder and Aspen area hanging out with other hanger-outers. We decided to be alittle more serious so my future wife went to school and I went in the service to help pay for it.
    
    While I was in the service I was a medic and had my eyes opened to reality. Seeing people broken mentally and physically was hard and then to head into town and have the same type of I used to hangout with hurl vile insults at me changed my perspective on who I was and what America was all about.
    
    We've worked hard and have become what we would have never thought we would. We work hard with our church and actually do something not talk about what sould be done. That aside we both are issue oriented but probably lean more to the right/conservative. We really have a problem with people who aren't willing to help themselves and those selfrighteous people who want to give-it-all-away because thats their view on fair.
    
    Great topic as usual from you!

    replyreport
    1. 80

       jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Thank you for sharing. This just substantiates my view that conservatism comes with age and sometimes with experience. 
       
       I have three grown children.  2 boys and 1 girl.  The boys have always leaned towards conservatism, while the girl is a true liberal in thinking.  My explanation is that the school system has changed, although she is the youngest and there is only 6 years difference, she was educated (or not) in Florida, while the boys went to school in North Carolina.  There is little explanation as to her beliefs, except for maybe her friends influences.  It's hard to say.  I hope she grows up soon.

       replyreport
       1. 49

          lowlyposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          This is an actual true comparison of two families literally living next door to each other.  We have also found it to be fairly consistent in similarity when comparing all of the liberals verses all of the conservatives in a lower income neighborhood.  Most of the liberals appear to be renters, where most of the conservatives own or have a mortgage payment.
          
          Liberal family:
          She makes 30k per year.
          Her husband makes enough unemployment that for him to get a job wouldn't make sense to them, since he's now available to babysit and run errands.
          They have 1 child.
          They make use of food stamps, WIC, and medicaid.
          Their rent is $600 per month (and sometimes they have to pay it late).
          They give nothing to charitable organizations.
          They do not have the money to purchase a lawn mower so they only mow their lawn with a borrowed mower approximately 2 times per summer.
          They could not afford to have their gas turned on so they were cold all last winter.
          They have 1 paid for vehicle.
          They eat out frequently, and when they eat at home it is usually prepackaged meals.
          He goes out for a coffee every morning.
          They go to clubs/bars frequently.
          They stay up past midnight every night.
          They have a dog (pit-bull) they chain in their backyard.
          They curse frequently in front of their child.
          They do not come outside.
          They do not play with their child nor do they monitor her television viewing.
          They do not walk their dog.
          They have satellite television and three TVs.
          They have multiple video game systems.
          They smoke 2 plus packs of Camel cigarettes apiece daily.
          They purchase alcohol weekly (mostly imported beer).
          They drink soda and energy drinks instead of water.
          They buy their clothes new.
          Their child is frequently in trouble and is in a class of "hard-to-handle" students.
          They vote liberal hoping to get more aid and that marijuana (if not all drugs) will one day be legal.
          
          Conservative family:
          He makes 30k per year.
          His wife does not work at all; she manages the household.
          They have 4 children.
          They do not use food stamps, WIC, or medicaid.
          Their house payment is $600 per month, and they make over-payments.
          They give more than ten percent of their gross income to charitable organizations.
          They keep their lawn mowed.
          They heat with wood that they cut and gather themselves.
          They have 2 paid for vehicles.
          They eat out 1 day a week, and keep it under $20.
          They do not go to bars.
          They play outside with their children almost daily.
          They have 1 TV with an antenna.
          They have no video game systems.
          They do not curse.
          They go to bed at 9:00 PM.
          They do not smoke.
          They do not purchase alcohol.
          They drink water almost exclusively.
          They get most of their clothes from consignment stores.
          Their children attend the gifted school and have exemplary behavior.
          They vote conservative knowing human nature leads people to abuse a generous system, and that when people must work hard to survive, they DO work hard to survive.

          replyreport
          1. 60

             Davinagirl3posted 14 years agoin reply to this

             WOW!  This is the most judgemental post I have seen in a while.  Stereotypes are stupid.

             replyreport
             1. 0

                girly_girl09posted 14 years agoin reply to this

                Here is a description of most of my 'conservative friends'.
                
                Eat out a lot
                Drink a lot - liberally?
                Swear like sailors
                Smoke cigarettes and cigars (about 50/50 of them)
                Get limited hours of sleep
                Lots of energy drinks
                
                Also, many of my male friends could not even begin to understand how to change a tire, let alone chop wood. LOL This evokes a humorous image in my mind....no way they are going to chop wood. hehehe
                
                
                This just proves there are many things that can define a conservative or liberal. Actions and behavior can vary. So can political affiliations and beliefs.
                
                The terms conservative and liberal can obviously mean VERY different things to many different people. Interesting!

                replyreport
                1. 79

                   Sufidreamerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                   I didn't know your friends were Greek!

                   replyreport
                   1. 0

                      girly_girl09posted 14 years agoin reply to this

                      lol I actually do know a lot of conservative Greeks that are politically involved. So much fun to spend time with! Dinners with them are the BEST.

                      replyreport
                      1. 79

                         Sufidreamerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                         'Tis true - no holding back on the food, wine and cigarettes. One thing about Greeks is that they love their politics - arguing about it is a national sport!

                         replyreport
                         1. 0

                            girly_girl09posted 14 years agoin reply to this

                            Greek food is so wonderful. I could eat it every single day. I have a few family friends that own restaurants....great times spent there, for sure!

                            replyreport
                            1. 79

                               Sufidreamerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                               It is great food - I have learned so many nice recipes since moving here. There is ouzo, too - the lifeblood of any deep conversation.
                               
                               Agree with you about the definitions thing - the terms do not cross the Atlantic well, so Europeans and Americans have wildly different interpretations. Makes for some interesting misunderstandings

                               replyreport
             2. 59

                Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

                Liberal families I know give generously to worth while causes and generally  are extremely involved in the education of their children.They rent or own their own homes They focus on their children because they rationally planned to have them and they were not accidents. They usally make sacrifices in their careers to make sure they are actually  around to parent their children.They teach them the virtues of critical thinking and social justice.They volunteer to build house for the poor or clean up local park  as families. They are patrons of the arts and they have homes filled with books.  They give their  children lessons letting them develop their talents .They encourage free thinking and spiritaul growth. They let them define their own political and religious beliefs. They adopt their pets from no kill shelters and practice healthy lifestyles

                replyreport
                1. 0

                   girly_girl09posted 14 years agoin reply to this

                   This sounds a LOT like my household growing up...almost identical, actually. I am a conservative. I will say that I have a conservative mother and a liberal father. Combined, I was able to experience many different viewpoints and situations growing up. I am thankful for this.
                   
                   Again, liberal and conservatives can have very different meanings to different people. I think it is too bad that some conservatives look down upon liberals and I think it is too bad that some liberals look down upon conservatives. Luckily, in the real world, not everyone interacts or judges people based upon their political views (although it is beginning to increase due to all the mudslinging by BOTH political parties and everyone in between). Liberals are not evil. Conservatives are not evil.
                   
                   Here on HP, I see a lot of ridiculous 'political interaction' (I can't call it discussion or debate) that wouldn't occur in real life, except for possibly on a perverse version of Crossfire or something. Everyone wants to be a pundit!
                   
                   Anyways, it does discourage me to see negative viewpoints by both sides towards each end of the political spectrum. First and foremost, we should label ourselves Americans. Just my opinion!

                   replyreport
32. 80

    jiberishposted 14 years ago

    Becca wrote: "All justice, here where I live is dependant on color, economic status and geographical location in reality.  A socialist bent in our political system just might give some of us a fighting chance at a decent life."
    
    
    What kind of socialist bend could give you a better chance at a decent life?  All opportunites are out there for everyone, of any color in this country.  Would love to hear you take on this.

    replyreport
    1. 80

       jiberishposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Socialist bend?

       replyreport
    2. 59

       Becca's Blogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       What kind of socialist bend could give you a better chance at a decent life?  All opportunites are out there for everyone, of any color in this country.  Would love to hear you take on this.
       
       Remove the road blocks based on all of the 'isms" Racism, sexism, and classism. Fund the basics like health, education, and affordable housing in  a way that is drastic enough to impact poor communities. Enforce the separation of Church and State to keep those are religious fanatics from influncing the ability of women to have control of their reproductive systems and not be forced into life long proverty by becoming single parents at a young age.  Make political ethics the focus of public political outrage not if Adam and Steve want to have some form of civil marriage so they can visit each other in the hospital or have their homophobic relatives contest their wills

       replyreport
       1. 0

          A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          Now you want to have a meaningful discussion?

          replyreport
33. 85

    rebekahELLEposted 14 years ago

    balance, balance, balance~~~~~
    
    everyone is entitled to think for themselves and I wish more people would~~~~

    replyreport
34. 86

    livelongerposted 14 years ago

    Life is so much simpler when you make sweeping generalizations about people.

    replyreport
35. 62

    Lisa HWposted 14 years ago

    In the above "comparison" of only two different families, who is the "we" in "We have also found..."; and is that just one neighborhood, how many families are involved in that "sampling", and how did "the we" know who how to identify "all" of the Conservatives and "all" of the Liberals in that one neighborhood?
    
    (I have no doubt that it's a sweeping generalization.  I'm just wondering about how far it "sweeps out".)

    replyreport
36. 80

    Tom Cornettposted 14 years ago

    LOL...I've never met a Liberal with a pit bull...the next Presidential election...take a drive and look at reality...you'll see loads of conservative signs leaned against cars on cement blocks in the front yards.
    I know lots of liberals and conservatives who are good hard working Americans.

    replyreport
37. 68

    Flightkeeperposted 14 years ago

    I don't know what I am anymore. I would like smaller government, I believe in capitalism but see a need for some regulation. I tend to be liberal when it comes to people's lifestyle.

    replyreport
38. 59

    Colebabieposted 14 years ago

    Haha. They have four children and eat out once a week and keep it under $5. So they go to McDonalds and eat off the dollar menu? What charitable organization do they donate to? The American Heart Association?

    replyreport
    1. 80

       Tom Cornettposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       The Liberals seem to buy a lot more stuff too...TVs, Video games, dinning out, etc.  Liberals must support capitalism a lot more than consevatives. WOW! 

       replyreport
39. 62

    Lisa HWposted 14 years ago

    and who goes to bed at 9 pm other than 11-year-olds?  Where do the low-income-neighborhood people find that wood to cut themselves - from the neighbor's garage door?   

    replyreport
40. 79

    Sufidreamerposted 14 years ago

    The liberals do not come outside yet they eat out frequently, and he goes out for a coffee every morning - how do they manage that?
    
    The conservatives do not purchase alcohol and go to bed at 9pm. Very happy that I do not live next to these people - what a dull family.
    
    The 90 year old lady next door is more lively than those boring malakas

    replyreport
41. 62

    Lisa HWposted 14 years ago

    I haven't yet gotten past the thing about Conservatives and cutting their own wood.  I'm sorry - I'm not a freaking pioneer woman, no matter what my political leanings.   

    replyreport
42. 0

    Pacal Votanposted 14 years ago

    lowly -
    
    I am a conservative. Here are my characteristics:
    
    I have no children, but I want to have at least 1.
    I give nothing to charities, all I can spare I give to my friends.
    I have a lawn mower, but it's old and rusty.
    I can afford to have gas turned on, but as gas prices are going through the roof I think it might not always be like this.
    I have no paid for vehicle.
    I eat out once a week, and when I eat at home I never eat prepackaged meals.
    I drink no coffee.
    I go to clubs/bars once twice a month.
    I stay up past midnight every night.
    I should have a dog.
    One thing people dislike about me is that I never curse. I'm very weird I think.
    I get outside frequently.
    I watch no TV.
    I have no video game systems.
    I don't smoke.
    I purchase and drink alcohol weekly.
    I drink water, beer, wine, but no spirits.
    I usually buy my clothes new.
    I vote conservative.

    replyreport
43. 79

    Sufidreamerposted 14 years ago

    Lisa - we chop our own wood, live outside for most of the year and have only one TV, with antenna.
    
    I must be a conservative.

    replyreport
44. 0

    A Texanposted 14 years ago

    I hate my country and always find fault with anything corporations do. The only racism that exists is in the hearts and minds of white men! I hate our military and believe it exists only to kill anyone of Muslim heritage. I deny all truth even though It is in front of my face, I am liberal!

    replyreport
    1. 71

       maven101posted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Wouldn't that put you on the endangered species list..? A liberal Texan... or could it be it's the liberals' subconscious mind's way of protecting them from a negative realization about something they've long believed true and good which is important to their own identity and self-worth...?
       
       I didn't know you were in Afghanistan..I'm doubly honored to be your fan...Larry

       replyreport
       1. 0

          A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          Wasn't there for this current conflict, another reason entirely! We have liberal Texans they just happen to be conservative!

          replyreport
45. 95

    Dolores Monetposted 14 years ago

    I am a conservative. I think that health care should be a for-profit entity, it's a great way to make money. Sooner or later, everybody gets sick! But if you lose your job, or get really sick, that's because God thinks you are a bad person. So, if you get sick and lose your insurance and then your house and go bankrupt it's your own darn fault. 
    I am a conservative. I think it's a really cool idea to artificially inflate the value of various commodities, especially the ones people really depend on like medicine and gasoline. Then, my friends and I quickly sell out when the price is way up and that's how we make a lot of money. It's patriotic!
    I am a conservative. I think that the President of the United States was not born here in America, but in a hut in Africa someplace. I think that the president is secretly a Muslin extremist and probably hates God.

    replyreport
    1. 0

       A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Wow I have never done any of that, I knew I was liberal!

       replyreport
    2. 61

       Valerie Fposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       You sure he's a muslin extremist, and not a satin-ist? I don't cotton to either idea, but he may be pulling the wool over someone's eyes.

       replyreport
       1. 86

          livelongerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          Nicely done!

          replyreport
46. 0

    Pacal Votanposted 14 years ago

    girly -
    
    This is actually a sad thing.
    I think I could write a hub about what conservative and liberal means. It would be very long, very detailed and very objective. And yet I think it would still kindly get my hp account closed for me.

    replyreport
    1. 0

       girly_girl09posted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Being labeled a liberal or a conservative can mean very different things to different individuals. There are many stereotypes floating around throughout our society. The two terms are truly fascinating.
       
       I don't believe there is one way to accurately define either a liberal or a conservative, rather many generalizations are apparently assumed for each. We have all become so polarized and I think that is too bad.
       
       I would be interested in reading your hub. As long as it is done respectfully - which I'm sure it would be! , I don't see why it would get your account closed.

       replyreport
       1. 62

          Strophiosposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          In general, using liberal and conservative as political classifications is silly because the political spectrum has more than one axis. As the good folks at politicalcompass.org have realized, it has at least two: economic and social/civil. Someone can be left economically but right socially (i.e. Stalin) or left socially but right economically (i.e. libertarians).
          
          As for the OP, I'm left both socially and economically, likely something like a social anarchist, although I'm more capable in defining myself by opposition (i.e. our current system sucks).

          replyreport
       2. 0

          Pacal Votanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          Thanks, girly_girl.
          
          You are right as long as we define conservativism (or liberalism) by the acts of the people who decide to wave its flag.
          
          My hub will be about the original meanings of these terms and may get a bit (read very) historical in nature. It'll me respectful, I promise. I have respect for those who deserve it and this is not a question of political standing.

          replyreport
          1. 67

             SparklingJewelposted 14 years agoin reply to this

             the original definition of liberal was a conservative value...I think it has panned out like religious beliefs...everyone is ultimately trying to say the same things, but uses different words with different meanings...but in the end hopefully will recognize the agree on the most important things

             replyreport
47. 86

    livelongerposted 14 years ago

    Texas is not the most conservative state, by far. The "honor" goes to Oklahoma, I believe - a state quite a bit more advanced than Texas.

    replyreport
    1. 0

       A Texanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Are you following me? Oklahoma is advanced???? I guess you've never been there or maybe you are a resident and are trying to create an illusion?

       replyreport
48. 61

    nicompposted 14 years ago

    I am Liberal. I understand that no one can make proper personal decisions and it's up to the privileged few to decide what's right and good for the unwashed masses. I understand the importance of a dependent underclass so I provide them with food, shelter, and health care so they will continue to support my policies. I live in fear that right wing radical talk radio will survive to spread an alternate viewpoint, therefore I support legislation at the federal level to limit what American citizens can hear on the public airwaves.
    
    I nurture the withering structure of labor unions by giving them ownership in major automotive corporations even through they participated directly in the demise of those companies.
    
    I support politicians who hide bribe money in their freezers, who leave young women to drown in ponds, and who lie to grand juries while under oath. I overlook these foibles because I understand that no matter the shortcomings of a liberal, they always mean well.

    replyreport
    1. 71

       maven101posted 14 years agoin reply to this

       My God !!! A flaming liberal is afoot in HubPages...Becca beckons...

       replyreport