When does Liberalism become Political Control?

Question

The suppose basis of "Liberalism" is to ensure that all have the right to the life they desire. However, Liberalists often mock views, morals, and religions that do not coinside with their views. Isn't this a contradiction to the vary basis of Liberalism?

Answer 1

Not if the basis of liberalism is moral relativism. However, if you're a critically thinking and logical adult (i.e., conservative) then yes, it is contradictory.

Answer 2

"Liberalism" is not one coherent philosophy, rather it reflects a general desire to protect liberties. Politically, it the United States it has been used to describe those believing in more social justice (federal civil rights, etc) while opposing government imposition of religious beliefs.

However, just because a "liberal" may support an open society of free views does not mean he/or she feels compelled to agree with any particular view or suppress their own opposition to that view. Free speech is the freedom to disagree.

Where the "liberal" takes issue is when the government imposes one particular belief system (see the Church of England, imposed school prayer, etc.) instead of allowing the people religious freedom. The "liberal" view would prefer each individual to be free to worship and believe as they see fit and others are free to vocally disagree.

Answer 3

Liberalism, particularly in the U.S., is the view that people benefit from government, that the purpose of government is to PROVIDE for the people.

We need laws but we only need government for basics like national defense.

Answer 4

Not when the views they mock condemn others who do not "believe" .. there is such a long way from mocking to condemning,

Answer 5

... I don't think we mock the views... we mock the blatant bold pushing of the views...

those are TWO very different things that conservatives can't seem to understand the differe