Robert Berger needs to be instructed in the proper use of the word "Liberal"! He's obviously hung-up on an outdated definition of that term. Forgive me for using a post that I wrote several years ago, but it explains Robert's misunderstanding of "Liberal".... and, I don't need to write a new explantion.
“Time”, “Culture”, and Political Terms (JPRD)
I wrote and posted this article on the internet a few years back. The debate mentioned in the article started with discussing support for our military, and disolved into philosophical argument. I think that the basic concept discussed in it provides a good basis for thought when using terms like "liberal", "conservative", etc. in today's world
I recently debated a self-proclaimed “liberal” on an Internet website. During this debate, the “liberal” argued that “liberals” have always been “righteous” throughout world history. Among the examples he noted were: 1. Liberals were the first to support fair treatment for workers. 2. Liberals were the first to oppose slavery. 3. Liberals were the first to support equal education for all citizens. 4. Liberals were the first to be against warfare. Well, you get the point.
In response, I pointed out that “Liberal” and “conservative” are “Time-Sensitive” political terms as well as “Culturally-Sensitive” political terms. If you lived in Spain during the Inquisition, you might be considered a “liberal” if you supported hanging a heretic instead of burning him or her at the stake. Admirable, very admirable!
In early 19th century America, it was indeed a “liberal” concept to be opposed to slavery. In early 20th century America, it was indeed a “liberal” concept to be opposed to racism and bigotry. I considered myself a “liberal” when the term implied “equal treatment” for ALL citizens. However, if we’re speaking of “21st century America”, these are now “conservative” political ideologies, not “liberal” ones. “Liberals” in America today support “rights” for some that they’re only too happy to deny to others!
To be “liberal” in 21st century America means that you’re committed to expanding our present cultural mores. Considering a modern, American “liberal’s” concept of “morality” that’s a very scary thought! Will “liberals” in this country soon be arguing for their “right” to “DO” their pet donkeys in public? Will they in their “liberal” wisdom decide that it’s their “right” to kill older family members when they become inconvenient to them? Given today’s cultural mores, these must NOW be considered “progressive” or “liberal” concepts. There MUST be a point at which “liberalizing” our “morality” or “liberalizing” our culture is no longer a praiseworthy goal!
The meaning of “liberal” and “conservative" has remained fairly constant over time in some cultures. For instance, in radical, 21st century Islamic culture you are STILL considered a “liberal” if you cut off a Jew’s head with your blessed right hand instead of your un-blessed left hand! Apparently, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is a “liberal”, radical Muslim?
Like my “liberal” debating opponent, I’m against war. Unlike my “liberal” opponent, I’m a strong supporter of our nation’s military......., especially when it’s defending me from the “liberalism” of folks like the Sheik!
