Values in Governing…
I would like to introduce this article and the responses to the survey on “Values and Politics” by
summarizing this exercise with a few personal notes and values which I wrote
last, but include here at the beginning.
Are there some values to which we
might agree?
It would
be unusual if there are? Yet I will do my best to at least articulate some of the
values I find useful… and may help to “grow corn” in the political process.
While the founding members of the united colonies simplified our rights to
“Life.. Liberty… and the Pursuit of Happiness,” I see other important aspects
which might be close to universal traits and be the seeds for our values… at
least the values I try to use when assessing governing policies and practices.
Oneness:
Interconnected web of Life. We are all brothers and sisters on one
planet. We are connected to an expansive consciousness that goes beyond
individual ego on many levels. This provides a value perspective beyond our
separate and egoic mental ideas and desires toward a more inclusive approach…
“What is done to my fellow citizens of the universe is also done to me.” We
cannot escape into isolation. Every action and inaction affects everything
else. I would hope that policies would reflect this level of responsibility and
accountability and interdependency.
Conscious Beings: We connect in meaningful ways with
our surroundings through sensations, intuitions, cognitive reasoning, feelings,
and energetic monitoring. We are aware of our awareness and our essence is that
of ‘Being’ or ‘Life’ itself. We do not live our lives separated in some way
from Life, but rather might see our physical forms as being breathed by Life.
It is not ‘my’ life, but rather the one Life breathing through this unique form. I would hope that policies would reflect the
affirmation of our expanding consciousness and be open to all manner of knowing….
And balance head and heart!
Free-Will … choice and expression… We are born
with the ability to express our spirit, thoughts, emotions, and insights
through many different modes, unless this ability is repressed through fear,
abuse, neglect, and other factors. Our choosing moves through instinctual
responses to all other modes of conscious and other-than-conscious modalities.
Our choices matter. The decisions we make lead to actions and in the process we
help to co-create the next ‘Now.’ I would hope that policies would reflect both
equality and inherent rights of all.
Love: We can connect with kindness and
compassion, with empathy and caring service to one another, unless we are
thwarted in our attempts to reach out. The parental instinct to nurture our
offspring toward thriving and surviving can expand toward an empathetic service
to all. I would hope that policies would reflect this desire to be kind and
care for all the earth and her inhabitants.
Community: We have a sense of natural
‘belonging’ and are connected to our family or other social groups through the
ties that Life presents to us. This can be limited to a few or inclusive of
many. It is natural to be in society, to be social, to connect at various
levels and in various ways. I would hope that policies would reflect the need
for both group guidelines or rules and the various levels of our collective
well-being without selective discrimination or special interests.
Creativity and Generativity: We are curious about our world if
given the opportunity to wonder and explore.
We create and pass along our genes and others aspects of our lives to
the next generation as the human species goes onward. From the physical, we
creatively produce through industry, through art, through all forms of
expression of the life energy coursing through us. I would hope that policies
would reflect the appreciation of business, industry, and all the creative arts
that are a natural part of our human make-up. There can be an attitude of
openness and cooperative co-creating for the good of all.
Life Force or Energy: We have the power of Life Energy to
stand and be assertive and deal with life’s challenges and storms. We have
instincts to aid in our survival as a physical being and to those we add ways
to secure and protect our safety and continuity, with the foreknowledge that
there is an end coming to the physical forms in which we move about our moments
on earth. I would hope that policies reflect our desire to survive and be safe
in a practical manner rather than through fear-based exaggeration and falsehood
or through less civilized methods of destruction.
Roots: We are grounded in a common Mother…
Earth… As we are citizens of the collective spiritual dimension, so we are also
beings with a physical form which is rooted in the earth. I like to think of it
visually in this way: imagine the fire at the center of our planet is the same
fire that makes our sun shine… I would hope that policies reflect this common
ground on which we all stand and reflect more than the will and desires of one
nation or special interests… May they be policies that value traditions and are
useful for generations to follow.
Change: The largest chunk of interpretation
might be that ‘Everything’ is Energy in motion, constantly changing from one
form to another… We are all Miracles of Participation in this grand mystery
called Life. I hope I am able to raise
the frequencies of energy in this ‘John form’ to help bring about some joy and
happiness and to make our current home a better place to be. While we all enjoy
the comfort of a familiar nest and surroundings, if we try to stop the flow of
the river of change, we will find that we are creating unnecessary stressors
and pressure as well as fighting an unnatural and losing struggle in the long
run. I hope our policies reflect an openness to practical, positive, and
effective change for the good of ALL.
I am a
registered independent. I vote for and support candidates which seems to align
best with the values and life experiences I have tried to convey in my own
imperfect way.
****************
Listing of Contents
(Pagination may be off if
this has been copied to different formats.)
·
Summary
of personal values
·
Listing
of Contents in order
·
Political
Values – Why the strong partisan stalemate?
·
Responses
to the Online Survey (with comments)
·
Internet
Info (with comments)
·
Amusement
Park for Dems
·
Final
Words
Political Values … Why the strong
partisan stalemate?
As I was
driving home from a breakfast meeting recently, I began considering “why our
government doesn’t work very well.” It seems that winning and losing is the
name of the game. Governing and legislating seem far from the forefront.
Partisanship creates an atmosphere of enemies rather than co-workers and
co-legislators. I suspect there are those behind closed doors who are happy to
see the distractions of modern political life play themselves out continuously
on the cable networks.
I realize
that we each have our own biases that color the lenses of our expression. Yet
is there something that can be teased out of the maze of stereotypes that gets
to the values and common interests of those who identify with different
political parties? Probably not, since I realize where I will most likely come
down on this even as I start.
There are
exceptions to everything, I suppose, yet most people love their children and
want to see them happy and do well in life. Most people probably respect life
in some fashion even if our actions are somewhat inconsistent. We grow up in
relation to others and see the interactions within our various communities. People
do like their freedom and liberty. Most of us have a sense of what is fair and
just. Lots of us share an appreciation of beauty, music, and the arts in all
its forms. Many of us like to help others in need.
Yet we do
have many differences… differences born of family background, self-growth,
cultural and religious teachings and traditions, education and experience. We
are unique and we can celebrate that uniqueness. Yet conflict sometimes gets
the headlines where differences are sensationalized in order to sell papers or
produce higher ratings which in turn increase the bottom line.
As I began
looking at my own attitudes and beliefs, I wondered how others interpreted the
differences… differences in political parties… and could these differences be
teased apart into differing values or just the different interpretations of
similar values.
So with that
in mind, I went online and designed a survey form and distributed it to my
email contacts, Facebook ‘friends,’ and posted it on a blog I write. Of course,
some of these contacts are in 2 or three of these venues. I am grateful for
those who took a few minutes to indulge me in my unscientific research. I also
began to see how the parties and others define their values or policies online.
I did not do extensive research, but rather wanted to see how my own ideas and
values seem to match up in some way with what others are sharing.
Since our
current system seems to have limited the political process to 2 main parties,
it seems we need to start there even if there is to be change in the future.
By
statistics and voting registration, we even now define individual states as
“Red,” “Blue,” or “Purple.” Color categories define the number and distribution
of political party members in each state, which make for colorful big screen
maps for the TV Sportscasters, I mean newscasters, to present their latest
predictions.
Where do you
live?
Since childhood we have all had a sense of family and in a larger context, community. When there are crises, we tend to
help each other in some way. “It takes a village” is a saying I have heard and
also spoken many times in my life. So, there is often the reality that we are
in this together. There is a collective aspect of life that is a reality…
whether it is a family household, a cooperative endeavor like shared housing or
even developments, apartment housing, and condominiums. There are rules that
are devised to make life orderly and sometimes the rules are created and agreed
to by all and sometimes they are set by a small group or even by one person.
And so community life happens. We can accept the rules or we can try to change
the rules, or we can go somewhere where we find other rules… and there are
always rules and laws whether they are plainly stated or unspoken…
Governing is
simply a way to live in community whether it is a household, town, city, state,
nation, group of nations, or the planet. So, by values do we make the rules? By
what principles do we live? We all have them, whether we know what they are or
not.
Love,
caring, compassion can be translated into helping and protecting one another in
basic everyday ways and also in times of crisis…
Respecting
Life in all its forms… understanding our interconnected web of Life… which
includes you, me, all others, including all that is here on earth and in the
universe… all are a part of the One Energetic web of Life…
Freedom… to
decide and determine our individual and collective path… freedom of choice.
Security and
Safety seems to be a big part of living in the physical world. Not only
survival, but also protection from the forces and entities that seem to have
chosen different paths and also the forces of the natural world which live
beyond our collective rules and wishes.
Where do
values come from?
The short
answer is “everywhere.” Life’s moments are filled with decisions. Every
decision, whether rather instant or measured, comes out of our values and
beliefs and instincts. Of course, everything in our experience from day one
impacts our life, our emotions, and our thought patterns. Caregivers, teachers,
religious figures and leaders, bosses, friends, co-workers, experiences we have
and observe… all impact our value formation.
Some people
have consciously thought-out values. They have chosen the values and principles
by which they live or aspire to live by. Others live out the values,
principles, and teachings they have received, either consciously or
unconsciously, through others. For those who may be less conscious of their
values, there may be a greater dependence on leaders to articulate principles
and policies. They may be drawn to those leaders and party where they feel more
“at home” without knowing why. For those who may be more aware of their values
and principles through self-exploration and personal development, there may be
more of a tendency to try to understand why leaders espouse what they do. There
may be a bit more critical thinking involved. All of this is true for both
parties, not just the one we may agree with at the moment.
While we are
one people on one planet in one galaxy within a multitude of galaxies, we are
focused for the purpose of this article on the United States, since that is
where this writer lives. One of the issues that does creep into local politics
is the “us” vs. “them” thinking… self-interest vs. community interest. If someone
were to ask if I am a “patriot” I would say yes in the broadest sense of the
word. I do think that all countries are equally important as I think all people
are equally important. If I am looking at policies, then I want to keep in mind
what is important for all people not just my neighborhood. And there is also
the aspect of self-interest in which I also feel the place where I live is
important to me and others who live here in this neighborhood called the USA.
Let’s start
big. While most of the time, our minds are aware of our individuality and may
think “I am separate from others,” in actuality, we are impacted at every level
by all that goes on in various energetic levels… In scientific terms we might
say that we are part of the quantum soup of the universe. In spiritual terms,
we may think of this as “All of Life is One”… It’s all various forms on the one
“Life Energy” …or “the Great Spirit of Life” is “One.” I am staying away from
specific religious lingo and doctrine on purpose.
From this
inclusive perspective then, policy is always considered in terms of how our
collective decision-making will impact the “whole” and not just one or two areass,
like the economy, the bottom line, or the interest on one specific group.
I consider
the heart and the head have to work in tandem to provide a balanced approach.
Often in political discourse, leadership, honesty, and integrity is subjugated
to “our team’s talking points” and all is placed into a win-lose sporting
mentality. From what I glean from history, today’s political games are about
par for the course. Unfortunately, it seems that banking or corporate interests
and money control the political will. Power is therefore wielded by the
oligarchs who wish to hold onto their money and power and win the game. Their
interests are most likely rooted in beliefs that they are special because they
control the flow and coffers of currency and influence. Power and control can
too often be only an ego game which is justified by material immortality.
Values, when
rooted in the big picture of an interconnected universe, tend to be more
inclusive and take into account all people, places, things, and the environment
we ALL share. There is discussion about whether corporate greed and a lack of
awareness of human impact on the environment might kill the planet. It seems
more likely that it will kill all the inhabitants of the planet if anything…
and Mother Nature will survive and come back… even if it takes millions of
years.
Values such
as kindness, caring, compassion, and love are seen by some as “soft” values and
not practical in certain ways. They are okay for family and friends, but not
for governing.
Values and
human needs for safety, security, and protection, while probably a universal
desire for survival for all physical beings are basic and also can be seen as
“hard” when projected into power over others, military might, and invading
other people’s neighborhoods.
A respect
for all of life also expands our policy thinking beyond ourselves, our
community, and one nation. It always baffles me when we think saving a life in
one instance is paramount while killing a life in another instance is also
paramount. “Do not kill” is modified to “Do not kill unless justified to do
so.” And yet there is a certain relativity to life and to guidelines and
principles. I would consider many who behave in criminal ways or disrespectful
ways toward other people or other nations as somehow having lost their sense of
connection to the Oneness of Life… and perhaps disconnected from some aspect of
themselves, some aspect of their private or communal soul.
Respect for
all of life includes looking at how our decisions impact our environment,
whether they are individual, governmental, or corporate choices.
Freedom is
always present. We always have some free choice. We may not always be able to
control the circumstances of our life and what happens in our world, and yet we
always have the choice of how we will respond. We can work to change the
circumstances we do not like; we can accept what we cannot change; or we may be
able to move into a more agreeable situation. Along with freedom of choice, we
also have the responsibility of and accountability for our actions within our
values and principles if we wish to live a life of integrity. As a result of
free-will, social communities of all sizes have the need for guidelines and
laws to provide for the safety and security of the common good. Without
suggesting they are right or wrong, the ‘ten commandments’ provided the law for
a whole people… Zoning laws and municipal laws provide for orderly living in
community… The golden rule provided a more general guideline for doing no harm
when we treat others as we would want to be treated. All can be seen as a form
of providing for social order for the good of the community.
It seems
that the US has become, from the perspective of at least some of the nations of
the global community, the international police force. While there have been
attempts to design a more inclusive governing body, such as the United Nations,
and also to a lesser degree alliances of nations such as NATO, along with
international courts (The Hague), the US with its military tool chest has
become the “go-to” agency for action. At times the US tries to form alliances
and at other times goes it alone. Just as we are thankful for public servants
who are asked to keep the peace in our community and respond to conflict,
emergencies and criminal activity, it is not unreasonable to think that the
largest community also needs that oversight. Although it must be done with
respect for the integrity and freedom of other nations as well. And who among
us has the wisdom to decide about the actions of another nation, let alone
another person.
Respect for
others calls for both anger at injustice as well as an attitude and approach of
seeking understanding and diplomacy to work toward peaceful resolutions that
address the concerns of all parties. The exception in my thinking is that when
one party will only be satisfied with complete control over others, or
annihilation of others, then mediation and negotiations may not be
possible.
Responses
to the Online Survey: Political Values
1.
Responders
by percentage:
a. 5.6%
Identified as Republicans
b. 66.7%
Identified as Democrats
c. 22.2%
Identified as Independents
d. 5.6%
Identified as ‘Other Party’
A
few notes in case you wondered….
·
How was the survey publicized to find
responders? I
posted the survey on Facebook, the Sundance Center for Conscious Living blog,
and distributed an invitation to about 60 people from my email list. On
Facebook, I also spent $10 to promote the post and know there were some clicks,
but do not know if any of those clickers went on to respond.
·
When was the survey conducted? May
8-15, 2014.
·
How do you explain the higher percentage
of responders being either Democrats or Independents? It seems my contacts are mostly Independents
and Democrats, at least the ones who responded. Perhaps because many of my
personal acquaintances are Dems or Indies. Personally, I am registered as an
Independent, but in many instances find myself agreeing with Democratic
policies. As an independent, I try to support and vote for those who support
the same ideas and policies that I support, regardless of party. Over the
course of my voting experience I have been registered at various times as
Republican, Democrat, and Independent.
·
How was anonymity maintained? The survey was designed in such a way that,
even for those who sent their name or email address, I was not able to link
responses to identities. I also was not able to link party identity to
particular responses… also by design.
·
How were various categories determined? I tried to place various responses into
common areas. If something didn’t seem to have a particular category, I placed
it in “Other” or “General” categories. In some cases, responses could be placed
in various categories. There is always subjectivity in this process and
probably each person would do it differently.
·
Have you edited any responses? No... However, I did correct some spelling
that were pointed out by the spell-check feature; Otherwise, all responses were
copied and pasted directly as written.
Questions
and responses:
2.
In a few words or sentences…
What are the main characteristics and values of the Republican Party
and policymakers?
·
General characteristics or values:
power; control; conservative [3]; corporate power; States’ rights; resistance
to change
·
Business/Money/Economy:
Protect Corporations; interested in fiscal matters, money (how to make more and
who makes the most), very protective of the rich Big Money; tax breaks for the
wealthy, everyone else up by their bootstraps; Cut down on federal expenses;
policies to benefit those who are most wealthy; Unable to manage the economy; capitalism [2]; Allow
businesses to make as much money as possible, regardless of how that translates
to mistreating employees, the planet, and consumers; free enterprise: protectors of business and
bankers; supportive of big business; Give to the rich & forget the poor;
·
National security:
national security
·
Religion/Spirituality:
Have religious agenda; lack of consciousness about how interconnected we all
are;
·
Foreign Policy/Military:
most hawkish on war issues; opposed to the U.N.; strong military might; use of
power over others in the world
- Government:
less government involvement in personal matters; smaller government; Less dependence on the
government; more belief in the
original Constitution; small government;
- Individualism:
Fostering an "every man for himself" mentality; individual
freedoms
- Guns:
oppose gun control [2]
- Limited or
Negative:
self-interest [2], somewhat elitist and racist, not very concerned about
social issues; not concerned about the welfare of the middle class; not
concerned about women's issues; fewer social programs; less focus on
environment, taking from the less fortunate; eliminate the social safety
net; policies which promote greed; oppose gun control [2]; Status quo; oppositional
to Obama; dogmatic; unsympathetic to poor; Judgmental and very narrow
minded; they suck;
JH: Since
most respondents came from other-than-Republican categories, I noticed many
honest responses were rather negative or pointing out limitations. Here, I’d
like to suggest perhaps some neutral or less volatile terms that come to mind
in trying to understand the nature of Republican values and principles…
·
Shared
interest in safety and security;
·
Importance
of protection;
·
Appreciation
of traditions;
·
Cautious
about quick changes;
·
Concern
for fiscal responsibility;
·
Affirming
the value of business and industry for our economic well-being;
·
Allow
free marketplace decide who wins and who loses;
·
Importance
of national defense;
·
Affirming
the importance of values in family and social living;
·
Firm
with foreign aggressors;
·
Retain
privacy and the rights of individuals and States;
·
The
importance of personal responsibility and accountability;
·
Affirming
the worth in the individual;
·
True
to stated values and principles.
3.
In a few words or sentences,
What are the main characteristics and values of the Democratic Party and
policymakers?
·
General characteristics and values:
big picture; more conscious; More ‘liberal’
[3] points of view; compassionate concern for and responsibility to the
community as a whole (diluted by personal political ambition); Claim
to be more concerned about the 99% than the 1%; for the people; Looking out for
the unfortunate; protect and help everyone; raise up the lower and middle
classes; caring and respecting each person; populist; works to give back to
everyone
·
Limited or Negative:
opposite Republicans; ‘bleeding hearts;’ they suck;
·
Services/Support
taking care of the middle class; cares about protecting social security,
Medicare and Medicaid, i.e. caring for those who need help; More social
programs; social infrastructure; Secure
the social safety net; take care of the needy; government is a powerful ally in
making life, especially the infrastructure, better; best Democrats support
programs and policies which help the poor; government support for the
disenfranchised; for social programs; provide programs to help those in need; sympathetic
to poor; Care about others;
·
Business/Economy/Money:
cares about a decent minimum wage; growing the national economy; accepting the
fact that making things better often means more spending; Utilize taxation in
order to accomplish their goals; Regulating businesses to ensure safe, fair
working conditions; more distribution of wealth;
·
Rights and Equality:
cares about equality of the sexes; cares about women's issues; protecting the
middle class; cares about equality of the races; Equality; equal rights for all
·
Education:
cares about being a leader in education
·
Healthcare ACA:
healthcare for everyone; support the Affordable Care Act.
·
Immigration:
an intelligent immigration policy (The Dream Act)
·
Environment:
more environment concerns; for the
environment; Being environmentally conscious
·
Guns:
some gun control
·
Government:
Belief that government should be a huge presence in citizens' lives; work for
diplomatic and peaceful resolutions to conflict; more government involvement to
insure equality for all;
JH:
Many of the responses reflect actions and policy rather than specifically sated
values. So here are a few of the values stated in a neutral as possible way:
·
Inclusive of many
·
Empathy and caring for those in need
·
Equality
·
Community based approach
·
Help others thrive
·
Government can be a positive force in
people’s lives
·
Provide guidance and limit abuse in all areas
·
Share with all, especially those who are less
fortunate
In your opinion,
What are the top 3 or 4 main purposes of our federal government to
fulfill?
·
Protection,
Safety, Security, Order:
safety and security; Security; to keep our country safe,
etc.; personal security and safety; Protect our country from
aggressors; safety; national defense/security; Protect people,
resources with policy and procedures in order to keep order; provide basic security for citizens; defend
the country
·
Provide
and Protect Equal Rights:
assuring equality among U.S. citizens; Secure protection for equal
rights such as the right to vote, the right of marriage equality, freedom
from discrimination; Equality for all; provision of basic human
rights; promotion of equal opportunity modeling the values of
respect, compassion, and justice for all; Protecting citizens' civil rights;
safeguard the rights of all; Defend the rights of us here in the
US
·
Provide
and Maintain Social and Material Infrastructure:
Seeing to the betterment of public infrastructure, which includes ports,
roads, airways, utilities and education, and should contain healthcare
and the internet; healthcare; maintaining infrastructure;
excellence in education; education; enable infrastructure;
do things that are too big for individuals and states to do like infrastructure;
housing; support research; Give us back our social
security we have already paid in....
·
General
Purposes:
care
of its people; preserve health & well-being; To represent the
people; To balance public and private interests; Assist the
States when needed; promote general
welfare of all citizens; provide safety net for those in catastrophic events; provide
for special needs like healthcare; set standards and policies that insure
that every American has the opportunity for a decent life; Think
they need to take care of us here & a little less in other countries;
·
Economy/Business:
economic growth; employment; Create jobs nationally
and globally; Regulating business so that it is both fair and safe; Balance
the budget; use money wisely; provide currency and economic
regulation for the country within the context of global economy; foster
sound economic practices so citizens can have jobs and support families;
·
Global
Leadership:
Maintaining leadership in the world; Setting an example for the
world of fairness, equality, and due process; represent American ideals to world
·
Laws
and Social Order:
To enact laws that are in the best interest of the people; provide laws
and guidelines to regulate respectful social living
·
Foreign
Policy:
use diplomacy instead of armed conflict (in order to bring about
solutions to worldwide problems such as poor health, severe hunger, and the
proliferation of arms)
·
Government
Changes Needed / Negatives [ed.]:
to stay out of our business; to quit trying to control everybody;
government needs to be smaller not larger; term limits need to be
enacted with no benefits when they leave; To screw the hard working average
American;
[Inserted] From
the internet and adapted from, “The
Purpose of the U.S. Government per the Constitution” … An excerpt from the
U.S. Constitution that best expresses these purposes reads, "We
the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union,
establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence,
promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves
and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United
States of America".
·
To Form a More Perfect Union:
While initially, the (former) colonies weren't united, they soon came to
realize that there is strength in solidarity and as such formed an
alliance with one another. Thus, the Constitution provides for such a union
or alliance of united states.
·
To Establish Justice:
The most vital role in a successful democratic government is to ensure justice
within the nation. Though the term justice is open to interpretation, the
explanation most widely accepted is that the law must be fair, unbiased, and
logical. This is the basis for both law and order. Theoretically those who
discriminate and deny others’ rights would be breaking the law and brought to
“justice.”
·
To Provide for the Common ‘Defense’: It
intended for the government to provide a basic system of defense against
enemies of the new alliance. It has turned into offensive strategies also as
the US has gained strength through military expansion and the growth of the
military industrial complex that Eisenhower warned against in the 1950’s. The
defense and arms industries collect their profits as long as there are
conflicts or threats of armed conflict.
·
To Secure the Blessings of Liberty:
Freedom and responsibility go hand in hand. Equality was eventually extended to
all through the Bill of Rights and Constitutional Amendments.
·
To Promote the General Welfare: A
broad purpose of the government that is constantly open to adaptation and
growth is the role of the government to provide the American people with
services and regulations that are for the public good. Such regulations
may include health and food standards, public education, and consumer
protection. However, in order to allow capitalism to flourish, the government
leaves certain services available to private businesses (such as railroads and
airline transportation), this allows market competition to thrive so that the
consumer can receive the best services and prices possible, unless of course
there are back door deals and price agreements.
·
To Insure Domestic Tranquility:
This role of the federal government is relatively self-explanatory in name. The
government must provide order in society and allow for domestic peace. It
hopefully will prevent the nation from descending into anarchy.
While the history of the United States has progressed,
the purpose and role of the American government has also evolved. However, the
purposes indicated in the Constitution, at least theoretically, still remain the
core of the American government’s foundation.
What
does the term "Conservative" mean to you?
·
General Associations, Approaches, and
Attitudes toward Governing:
o
General: Responsible;
fair; Not adhering to extreme positions; Religious; republican; Be responsible
for ones-self;
o
Change: Afraid of change;
refusal to change in the case of today's politics; little change; desires to
keep things status quo; resistant to change [2]; no or slow change; maintaining
the status quo;
o
Limited/Negative: Mean-spirited
and hateful; averse to risk; Limited & narrow minded; quick to judge others;
o
Status Quo/Past: Clinging
to outdated philosophies; support
reactionary, backward looking policies and programs to the detriment of those
that would help the poor and disadvantaged; Keeping in mind the values of our
forefathers with religion, old policies and procedures with a fear of change;
preserve things as they are; preserve things as they are;
o
Ideas and thinking:
Unscientific; close-minded; Old fashioned; Less likely to take chances or have
new idea; Black & White (right/wrong) thinking; closed to new ideas/change
·
Pro-Positions:
o
pro-gun;
o
budget and financial issues are more
important than peoples' needs;
o
Belief in personal accountability;
·
Positions Against:
o
no "choice" for women;
o
Anti-Gay;
o
Anti-abortion;
o
anti-big government;
·
Money and Power:
o
inequality, especially where money is
concerned benefits for the wealthy;
o
frugal economic policy;
o
big business focus;
·
Social Services and Benefits Programs:
o
penalties for the poor;
o
help less;
o
helpful to those in need
·
Government:
o
wanting privatization of federal programs;
o
small government focus;
What
does the term "Liberal" mean to you?
·
General Associations, Approaches, and
Attitudes toward Governing:
1. Open-minded: some
flexibility in opinions; open to new ideas; willing to hear consider new ideas;
willing to try ideas that are fact-based; willing to consider other viewpoints;
Non-judgmental; Open to new ideas; Willing
to try new things; More accepting of others; Be open minded;
2. Forward
Looking: Progressive; humanistic; support progressive and
forward-looking policies; Open to progress and change for the better; Not
locked into an old-fashioned mindset; more interested in social change; Change
direction as needed;
3. Current
Values: 21st century values; more modern points of view;
4. Inclusive,
equality of all: accepting attitudes toward all races,
creeds, religious beliefs; providing a big tent; inclusive; willing to work for
the benefit if all;
5. Compassionate: caring;
concern for others; helping others help themselves; caring for people who can't
care for themselves; supportive of needy; willing to spend on programs and
policies that help those in need;
6. Other: more
easy going; desires change; providing a big tent; democrat; loosey-goosey; anything
goes; take from people who work for a living and give it to those who wont; Challenging
all of the above [ed.: conservative?]
with possible new ideas not having as much policies and procedures; more involvement
by government so that equality and opportunities are provided for all;
·
Pro-Positions:
o
pro-choice;
o
intelligent immigration policy;
o
environmental; sustainability;
o
equality; equal rights for all;
o
ensuring safety and security;
o
support programs in order to help the poor,
disadvantaged, and those suffering from various inequalities within our
society;
o
more peacemaking and caring;
A few points from the internet with
comments…
The
following are some Republican Party Values from an internet search along with
my (JH) comments. Many of the following are reflected in the Survey responses
as well:
·
“Generally support traditional Christian
values in society - Believe "In God We Trust" is OK in our government”
...
JH: We all have a spiritual aspect to our
being in my opinion. I respect every person’s right to believe what they chose
to believe. And there are many interpretations as to what Christian values are
and how we act in the world based upon the values we choose to accept. While I
certainly have my tradition and roots in the Christian culture, my own path has
taken me to accept a more inclusive view of spirituality beyond any one
religion and its teaching. Many spiritual teachers will agree that all points
to one Universal Being, yet differ quite a bit on specific doctrine and
theology. Politicians while attempting to lead tend to use religious ideas more
in a manipulative way to sway voters then to actually impact a caring and
compassionate legislating agenda. There is a separate article that can address
the issue of defining the concept and meaning of “God” and masculinizing
divinity.
·
“Smaller Federal Government - more States
Rights” …
JH:
I think this goes back to the sense of individualism and somewhat to libertarian
thought. Of course, the individual is free to choose, yet anyone who has grown
up in a family or other group knows that there are usually rules and guidelines
for the good of the group. When translated to larger groups, there are things
that a larger group can accomplish that can benefit many people. There is
absolutely nothing wrong with individual rights, states’ rights, and human
rights at any level. Yet there are certain individuals or states or nations
that may impinge on individual rights in a discriminatory or harmful fashion,
and as we know from history, it may take an outside entity to step in to help
ameliorate the discrimination or harm. Smaller is often better as long as it is
working for all the people.
·
“More Individual Freedom and Individual
Accountability”…
JH:
I have addressed this above. I would add that free-will does not mean we can do
anything we wish without accountability for the good of the larger community.
Freedom and individual accountability does not mean we should not help others
as within society and the world, yet there are limits to what we can do as
well… “teaching others to fish” can be quite a bit better in the long run than
just distributing fish.
·
“Believe in Capitalism / Market
Competition for best economy”…
JH: I think the myth of the free hand of capitalism and
trickle-down economics has been shown to be false in so many ways. With a few
exceptions, we are not seeing much of the wealth benefit the rest of the world
beyond the corporate family walls. The wealthiest are getting more, and able to
play the tax avoidance games, all legally by the way, and there is no
indication that “we the people” of the world benefit, except perhaps other
corporate owners in developing countries. Now the most money is probably made
through mergers, swaps, downsizing and Wall Street insider trading than through
manufacturing. Those who are wealthy saw this coming and also made it happen in
many ways. Downsizing became a favorite corporate tool for boosting
shareholders’ gains about 20 years ago… and of course we hear and see how much
of the manufacturing in the US economy has moved to other countries. We have
heard how this helps the global economy in ways… but the ways are usually
limited to increasing the purses of the owners of foreign manufacturing
operations…. Many Republicans believe the government should not be involved in
any way with the private sector business world. Here is one example of the
stance of a Republican candidate from GA: http://thinkprogress.org/election/2014/05/13/3437177/handel-minimum-wage/ … In fairness, while this minimum wage stance
is one example, there are some Republicans who do think it is best to provide a
higher minimum wage standard at the federal level.
·
“Less Taxation”…
JH: Doesn’t everyone wish they had fewer taxes to pay. That is
quite popular. The tax codes have been rewritten and amended a number of times
since they were put in place… I guess the legality of the income remains a
question in the minds of some. As a larger community, we do need to have funds
to provide certain benefits to the citizens. The question then becomes, “what
shall we all pay for at the federal level, the state and local levels, or just
as individuals?” I, as an individual, do not have the funds to build a dam or
fix interstate highways or trains or airports. So there is a legitimate
function in my mind for a government to do these things…. and also for many of
the programs that provide for the safety, security, and welfare of our
citizens. Much is said during campaign speeches about taking away some of the
tax credits and subsidies that corporations receive, especially when their
profits are astronomical by most accounts. CEO pay certainly shows what is
valued in our current society, along with entertainment enterprises and
individuals. Because corporations are for the most part multi-national, as is
the economy, if there tax benefits are taken away, they may simply find another
country in which to move their operations and gain the benefits from that
country and also benefits the people of that country.
·
“Less Welfare - More Work”…
JH: We could turn this around and say, “More Work – Less Welfare”…
First, there is a confusion it seems as to what “welfare” actually means, or
how it is interpreted. There are always people as well as corporations that
will game the system to get as much for themselves as possible. That is why we
need regulations and laws along with more efficiency in the systems of
government at all levels. Welfare of the people can be defined as helping with
safety and protection, making sure food and things are safe, there is work
available for people to do. For those in poverty, out of work, disabled, and in
need in other ways, there is both a compassionate and practical reason to help.
Utah, for instance, has begun programs to give free housing to the homeless
with tenant guidelines that must be followed. They have determined that this is
more practical, economically, in the long run than providing expensive services
as needed while they are on the streets (It is also quite humanitarian.) There
are plenty of welfare to work ideas and programs in place, yet if the jobs are
not available, there is no place to go. If the wealthy will not provide jobs
through projects and manufacturing, then perhaps we must choose between a growing
gap between the “classes” in terms of income… and some intervention through a
benevolent government program that also benefits all, such as infrastructure
projects. We are also seeing more of our military citizens and veterans left
hanging in limbo after serving their country in various ways. So, I am all for “less
welfare and more work,” but I am afraid it is just a slogan that tends to judge
certain groups of our fellow citizens.
·
“Less Abortions - Pro Life” …
JH: Again this is a slogan type phrase that is more emotion-based
than anything. I’m not sure that there is anyone who would espouse more
abortions and yes, I would like to see fewer abortions, more prevention, and
more education about the sex and relationships, communication, and the
realities of life. Many who say they are “Pro-Life” also do not seem to mind
the killing of innocents in war or killing those who committed crimes or don’t
mind killing the environment in many ways by protecting those who pollute the
air, water, and soil.
·
“Very Strong Military” …
JH: We all prefer safety and security. In the beginning of our nation we had
something similar to the National Guard, only most of the “guardsmen” were at
home working and ready to be called if needed. The guns they were provided were
allowed to be kept with them. The 2nd amendment came about because
some of the Colonies were concerned that the government who issued the guns
might change their legislative mind and collect them… and they did not want
that to happen. It later became what it is today, interpreted to mean that
people can have guns everywhere, almost. Protection from foreign invaders and
protecting our borders from invasion has been turned into policing the world
and justifying war based on “in the national interest” which might also be
interpreted as: “In the interest of our military industrial complex and desire
to control oil distribution”…IMO… A very strong military isn’t a bad thing in
itself, yet it does not follow that a military option has to be the first or
only option. As most people know, our defense budget is the largest in the
world. I often wonder if fear is the main “value” of some… “If we can only be
the biggest bully on the block, then we’re safe and in control.” We hopefully
have learned the lesson to move beyond Machiavellian thinking that “might makes
right” and “the end justifies the means”…I am a Vietnam Era veteran of the USAF
and am proud to have served our country. It did not stop me from opposing
certain war efforts and actions I thought were wrongly justified. I honor and
support our men and women who serve in the military. They, for the most part,
are innocent bystanders carrying out the orders of those in safe places. I hope
we will continue to be a country and world where discussion, free speech, and dissent
are a welcomed part of a free society. When we become afraid of words and
ideas, then it seems we have crossed into some kind of blind tyranny.
·
Anti-‘Socialism’ - Believe ‘socialist’
programs weakens our society …
JH: My guess is that most people who throw the term “socialism”
around do not care if they know what it means or not. It is often used as other
words and labels have been used in political speeches to raise a fear of the
other person or party and try to turn people against them. The United States is
not a socialist country and most politicians are not advocating socialism. The
definition of socialism is: “a political
and economic theory of social organization that advocates that the means of
production, distribution, and exchange should be owned or regulated by the
community as a whole.” Promoting
programs to help the citizens and being concerned about the welfare of the
citizens of a country is in no way “Socialism.” Suggesting that programs to
help citizens weakens the economy is off-base and it seems that the transfer of
manufacturing to other countries and the transferring of more wealth to the
wealthy actually weakens the moral and health of the economy even more. At
least any funds spent to help those in need get poured right back into the
economy rather than placed in offshore accounts to avoid tax requirements, Then
a series of shell companies are set up to protect the real owners of wealth
stored in foreign accounts. Elizabeth Warren answers her critics that she is a
“socialist”: http://www.occupydemocrats.com/watch-elizabeth-warrens-brilliant-response-to-critics-who-call-her-socialist/
·
“Republicans normally accept some loss of
individual privacy to protect the society as a whole.” …
JH: I think for the most part, anyone accepts some loss of privacy to protect
society. I think the issue has become one of trust. Most of us know that the
governments frame or spin events for their own purposes and to protect certain
programs and plans that may or may not be transparent. Most people probably do
not trust their government. That innocence has long been taken away for many of
us who have witnessed and research the lies, deceptions, and clandestine black
ops that have been done over the years. There is some truth in most conspiracy
theories if you dig into them. The NSA, CIA, and other agencies or operatives
go about doing what they do without transparency or oversight from trusted
representatives of “we the people.” The banking families staged a hidden coup
to co-op the currency of the United States back in the early 20th
century by creating a private corporation to control the currency and called it
:The Federal Reserve” which is neither “federal” or a “reserve” unless you call
printing more monopoly money a reserve. SO for the most part, we continue to
live our lives day to day somewhat enslaved in our debtor society, unless of
course you were born into the elite ranks. So I would guess most of us are
Republicans if that means we accept some loss of individual privacy to protect
the society as a whole… what choice do we have… The world is certainly complex
and most do not offer real practical or possible solutions. I do believe there
are those who like to keep the system involved in distractions of partisanship
rather than actually addressing the governing and shaping of society since that
is what they like to do from behind the curtains of Oz…
The following are some Democratic Party Values from an internet
search (some reflected in Survey responses):
·
Representing the interests of working
families, fighting for equal opportunities and justice for all Americans.
·
Wealth and privilege shouldn’t be an
entitlement to rule and the belief that the values of hardworking families are
the values that should guide us.
·
Rewarding hard work and responsibility, by
investing in people, and by growing our country from the bottom up.
·
Growing an economy based on the values of
Main Street, not greed and reckless speculation
·
Rebuilding our economy for the long run—an
economy that lifts up all Americans.
The following compare some perceived Democratic Party
Issues / Values with perceived Republican Party stances on selected issues
(many are reflected in the Survey responses: Of course it is always a matter of
interpretation and this information was provided by an “independent journalist”
; somewhat oversimplified.):
·
Taxes
Many
Democrats think that the more you make, the more you should be taxed. This is
seen as a way to help the country in a fair way and assist those who need some
help. On the other hand, many Republicans are for getting rid of as many taxes
as possible. Republicans are for a flat tax, where everyone would pay the same
percentage in taxes, regardless of how much money they make. Democrats
generally would like to see corporate taxes go up, subsidies to corporations
cut, and foreign tax havens and other avoidance issues be legislatively
addressed and rectified.
·
Treatment of The Poor
Democrats think that many people are poor partially due
to cultural inequalities and other forces they cannot control. Therefore they
need outside help in order to become viable contributing members of society. Some
Republicans think that anyone who is poor is poor because of their own decisions
and faults and so are undeserving of any outside help.
·
The American Dream
The Democrat's American Dream is of one day waking up to
see that everyone has a job, food, housing and access to affordable health
care. The Republican's American dream is to be free and happy through making as
much money as possible which will ensure their families live as comfortable as
possible.
·
Government Involvement
Democrats see that government action can help to make
positive change on the national, state and local levels. Republicans generally believe
in small government. They only want the government to defend the country, lower
taxes and defend the wealthy and corporations.
·
Government Services
Democrats believe in services like these because they
believe people need a helping hand once in a while. Republicans, generally, do
not support such government services as welfare, Social Security or Medicare,
unless they are recipients, because they feel people will always take advantage
of these services. There are plenty of Republicans who also are assisted by
these government programs.
·
Basic Human Instinct
Democrats believe that people and corporations will get
away with anything unless there is a serious chance that they could go to jail
for their behavior. Republicans believe that at their core corporations and
people will do the right thing (except when it comes to using government
services).
·
Change
Democrats see change as the only way to move forward and
get things done properly. Republicans fear and resist change in just about any
way because it could lead to a “slippery slope to ruin.”
·
The Environment
Democrats think the government needs to impose tighter
environmental standards and enforce regulations because industries cannot be
trusted to do be ethical. Republicans do not recognize an environmental crisis
is currently happening. They believe industries should regulate themselves and
that the Environmental Protection Agency should be abolished. Republicans often
seems to wish to disregard science and documented facts in order to continue
their “beliefs” and protect business and unrestrained free enterprise. Some of
you have seem the ads that are shown that suggest that fracking is reliable
(but for what?). These ads like others are paid for by industry supporters and
use studies paid for by the oil and gas industry. Recent findings that show
increased seismic activity in areas where much fracking is taking place are
totally ignored by the industry and the pro-industry marketers.
·
Gun Control
Democrats know too many people who have been shot and
believe that people in this day and age do not have the right to carry guns
because those guns could be stolen or get into the hands of children or
criminals or used in domestic violence. Republicans are against gun control
because they feel gun ownership is protected under the Constitution, by their interpretation
of the 2nd Amendment written for other reasons (see above) during
our country’s early history.
·
Abortion
Generally, Republicans are against abortion while
Democrats are for it. Although this is an issue that involves very few
Americans in their day-to-day lives, sometimes this is the only political issue
that Americans will pay attention to due to its emotional density. Democrats
see this as a matter of a woman’s choice. Those against abortion usually state
moral and religious reasons and seem to know when a fertilized egg becomes a
person.
Amusement
Park for Dems
[For your amusement: Perhaps the
reality is somewhere in the middle, yet it seems the author, obviously a Dem.,
has captured, rather humorously, the essence of some differences even if
stating things to the extremes at times. – jh]
Over the years, you may have noticed
that there are some fundamental differences in the way Republican and
Democratic politicians think. Here are just 15 examples….
(1) Republicans fear
that the government has way too much control over corporations. Democrats
fear that corporations have way too much control over our government.
(2) Democrats believe
it benefits all of us to mostly help the weakest and the poorest among us. Republicans
believe it benefits all of us to mostly help the wealthiest and powerful
among us.
(3) Republicans believe
large corporations will always do what is best for the American people and the
planet if only the government would stay out of the way. Democrats believe
large corporations would totally disembowel you, sell your organs to the
highest bidder, and wreak havoc on all life on the planet if the government
didn’t stop them.
(4) Democrats believe
everyone has a right to wellness and health care regardless of their ability to
pay. Republicans believe everyone is entitled to jack squat if they
can’t pay for health care.
(5) Democrats believe
way too much of our money goes to crooked corporate executives who take
government subsidies and pay themselves $80 million salaries. Republicans believe
too much of our money goes to teachers and others who make $30,000 a year or
less.
(6) Democrats believe
anything or any amount of money that helps the American people during a
recession or a time of crisis is the true essence of patriotism. Republicans
believe anything that helps the American people during a recession or a
time of crisis is the true essence of communism and is wrong..
(7) Democrats believe
that we need to set the highest standards for clean air and drinking water and
follow through be monitoring and enforcing those regulations. Republicans believe
that all standards for clean air and water are burdensome over-regulation and
will destroy our global economic well-being..
(8) Democrats believe
the President and Congress need to work together and compromise in order to
create jobs during a weak economy. Republicans believe that Congress should
do nothing or oppose bills to create jobs… and then blame the President and
Democrats.
(9) Democrats believe
that corporate polluters should be made to pay for the cleanup of their
pollution. Republicans believe that making corporations clean up their
pollution is once again burdensome over-regulation.
(10) Democrats believe
our health care system exists solely for the purpose of keeping or making
people healthy. Republicans believe our health care system exists solely
for the purpose of making a healthy profit for the insurance and medical
stakeholders.
(11) Democrats believe
Congress should be of the people, by the people and for the people. Republicans
believe corporations are the people.
(12) Democrats believe
that corporations have too much influence over Congress due to their lobbyists
and huge campaign contributions. Republicans believe the middle
class has too much influence over Congress due to their ability to vote
and pay taxes.
(13) Democrats believe
we need to protect victims of corporate negligence by allowing Americans to
file lawsuits against corporations. Republicans believe we need to
protect large corporations from lawsuits by Americans who’ve been victimized by
them since it intrudes upon a fair and free marketplace.
(14) Democrats believe
that the rich should be taxed more than the poor and middle class so some of
the wealth may be redistributed and help others. Republicans believe
that the rich should be allowed to keep all their wealth except for the
millions in campaign contributions they give to politicians, utilize all tax
loopholes, and avoid taxation through offshore shell corporations.
(15) Some Democrats believe that
too much money in politics produces corruption and destroys the American way of
life, and prevents true representation of the people back home. Republicans believe
that money and corruption in politics are the American way of life.
**************************
Final
Words (not really)
I want to thank all those who took a few minutes to
respond to the online survey. It was a fun to read all your answers and also a
bit of a chore trying to categorize them… yet that was fun as well.
This has been a good exercise in clarifying many of my
own values and moving toward a greater understanding of differences, although I
wish there would have been more responses from those who identify as
Republicans.
As a Life coach and mediator, I am always interested in
reaching for common interests, things that we can agree upon while also trying
to understand differences though friendly and civil conversations.
For whatever reasons, there has been little to no discourse
among our representatives about actual common interests or how we might find
ways to govern rather than just win debates, races, and air-time.
I am saddened but not surprised that we seem to have very
few, if any, real statesmen and women who are willing to work with integrity
for the good of all without being concerned with who may or may not put money
into their political coffers.
As we move on, we must act as if we are alone in
determining our co-created future, and yet I hold on to the hope and belief
that there are also guardian angels watching over the collective ‘we’ from
unseen dimensions.
Love
and Blessings to all as we move forward….
John
Hutchinson
john@sunhutch.com
If
you wish a copy of this article, let me know by email and I will send it your
way.
