"Jefferson the Liberal and Adams the Conservative, played important roles balancing each other's strong views"

Question

Do you agree with this comment?
Any Democrat can quote Jefferson and make Republicans seem anti-constituional, and any Republican can quote Adams and make Democrats seem anti-constituional. But, even these two founding fathers were aware of the roles they played.

"mARY." Sadly you are wrong, but this is a Republican mantra today. Modern Liberals best represent the Liberals of Old. (not perfectly, but best) Modern "Libertarians" want the individuals rights to be squashed by Corporate Rights and Corporate "personhood>"

Answer 1

The great American eagle wouldn't get off the ground without equally strong left and right wings. With one wing overpowering the other, it would simply fly in circles and make no progress.

Answer 2

Its a bit oversimplified--but essentlially correct.

Today, however, we have a somewhat different situation. The overwhelming majority of Americans (roughly 90%) are spread all accross the political spectrum--some liberal, some conservative--and the largest number more or less in the middle, usually with at least some views from both sides of the political spectrum. Plus, of course, the inevitable band of radicals of either type hanging onto the fringes.

However, the "conservative" end is also inhabited (perhaps "infected" is a etter word) by the so-called "neoconservatives/religious right." These people are superficially "conservative" but don't share the values--respect for the constitution, individual liberty, etc--that are generally shared by everyone else, conservative or liberal.

Conservatives and liberals have always balanced one another in America--and both aare stronger for it--as is America. The "neoconservatives' do not work with, co-operate, or otherwise share in that political give and take--they only take. They have no real part in the American society--and unless and until they learn thtthey are not entitled to have their own way at the expense of the rest f us--they deserve no place in American society or political life.

Answer 3

I agree. I also think that when our founding fathers were around, class was something that was taught to every individual regardless of money. People spoke respectfully, and listened to others because of the principles they were raised with. Society today does not listen. They hear what they want to, and react before the speaker is finished. That is why we don't have a balance. But it would be very nice if we could return to that!

Answer 4

I disagree. Most conservatives now-a-days are quicker to quote Reagan. But I agree that Jefferson has all the makings of a modern liberal.

Answer 5

Mary is just repeating the right-wing talking points.

I have Thomas Paine and Thomas Jefferson quotes where they state their support for progressive taxes, taxing only the rich, a pension system for the elderly, government work programs, public education, job training, social spending to reduce poverty, and even a minimum wage.

Those are not liberterian beliefs.

Answer 6

I think the key word in that phrase is 'balance'. Both voices are equal valid, but the policies produced should be a balance of both sides in order to be in the best interest of all Americans.

Answer 7

What are the new people doing these days; history at least is documented and made available for the benefit of the current populace--but, just what are those modern day "white curly hair wig"wearing people doing?

PS: they are in Iraq

Answer 8

I think the stuff about them two after they were President is cool, the correspondance over 20 years.

They faught and fighting over how best to run a country is terrific.

By fight I mean argue verbally

Answer 9

I agree with the statement completely, you are lying however when you compare Jeffersonian Liberal politics with modern Leftist ideology.

Answer 10

Yes, this is how balanced is achieved in a democracy.