Comparing Liberal and Conservative Socioeconomic Views in American Society

Conceivably the most prominent example of an individual liberty violation, murder is universally regarded as the most terrible of all crimes.  Conservatives hold very strongly that every human being has an unalienable right to life (Fleming, 2008).  The exception to this is of course people who commit murder, punishable with death for taking an innocent life.  Similarly, it is for this same reason that conservatives are so strongly opposed to abortion.  Liberals interpret capital punishment as crude, and only perpetuating the very action it seeks to discourage.  They do not regard fetuses as a human life, and accordingly support women’s rights for choosing how to deal with their own body.  While both are opposed to the taking of lives, conservatives are very rigid in their interpretations of what is acceptable, while liberals are more open to different interpretations of what can be construed as “life”.

Following in this same direction, war and national defense are two topics in which liberals and conservatives often disagree. Despite both groups attempting to be fiscally responsible with defense spending, neither is willing to sacrifice national security in order to save money.  However, conservatives and liberals often take different approaches towards a strong national defense and fighting wars or terrorism.

Conservatives hold that a strong military presence is essential to keep our society safe.  In both the late 20th century and early 21st century, conservatives have been the ones driving increased United States military power (Fleming, 2008).  Liberals believe that an increased emphasis on communication and negotiation can be more effective than raw strength alone.  They view war as much more of a last resort than conservatives do.  Conservatives are more willing to temporarily sacrifice certain individual liberties like privacy to ensure national security.  Liberals would be staunchly opposed to the type of legislation similar to PATRIOT act.  Regarding foreign policy, conservatives tend to view the United States as holding an important role in the international community.   This “American exceptionalism” belief means that conservative foreign policy is often aimed at setting precedent and at guiding the world’s course.

Regarding religion in government, conservatives and liberals have different ideas as to what is acceptable.  Conservatives believe that since America was founded based on Christian beliefs, it is acceptable for some religious symbols to remain in government (Kirk, 2004).  Liberals believe strongly in separation of church and state, and seek to remove references to religious symbols from government (Stanford, 2007).  Because of their differing opinions, they would probably disagree on the legality of displaying objects rooted in religion like the Ten Commandments or the phrase, “In god we trust” on national currency.  It is important to recognize that both sides hold the right to religious freedom very strongly.  Essentially, conservatives tend to try to ensure that government regulations do not intervene with religious freedom, while liberals try to ensure that individual religious freedoms don’t interfere with government operations.

While conservatism and liberalism can differ on many issues, they are both important as means of expression.  Their very different core beliefs represent the great individuality in our society and in the minds of our country’s citizens.  As time goes on, both of these ideologies will surely continue to develop and adapt to respond to new changes in society.  In the end, we must recognize that while opinions may differ, working together for the common good must remain our primary goal.  Taking note of President Obama’s prudent words, we must bear in mind that, “There’s not a liberal America and a conservative America – there’s the United States of America.” (Brainy Quote, 2008).