Where are you politically?

[hankhavelock]

Originally Posted by Bionca

What I find interesting about the US 2-party system is the division of economic and social issues and how the division is pretty contradictory. For example..

The "Right" values little government influence in regards to business and feels that private charitable institutions are better able to handle social welfare needs. In essence a Conservative in the US would like to see less taxes and less government involvement in the private sector....

Until we come to social/personal issues. Then we have the "Right" fighting against Gay Marriage (or any legal recognition of the relationships), fighting against Trans* folks getting the legal sex changed on their documentation, wanting government policy to dictate legal sex acts and partners, and having authority to determine what medical options are available to people with HIV, and having a say as to whether a pregnancy comes to term or not.

And the "Left" here takes the opposite - strong government influence in business and taxes and social welfare with a "hands off" approach to personal/social issues. No wonder people think Americans are nuts!

What a fabulous observation!

But I believe that the left rightfully understands that without strong government influence in certain areas then the socalled "vulnerable" will be completely overrun by the "laissez faire" approach. Basicly, "strong government" in a capitalist, democratic society means "to protect and serve every body" including the minorities.

Luckily, this entire presidential campaign seems to have opened at least quite a few American eyes to the fact that "strong government" is neither marxism nor a stopper of personal freedom. I guess that eight years with an ultra right (and really not very bright) administration finally paved the way for a new awakening in your beautiful country.

But I do love you wit and your wonderful way with words ;-)

BARACK