Conservatives vs. Liberal Views

Conservatives (Right Wing):

A. Conservatives defend the status quo against major changes in the political, economic, or social institutions of society.

B. Conservatives are opposed to governmental regulation of the economy and civil rights.

C. Conservatives are in favor of state action over federal action and believe in fiscal responsibility and decreased governmental action.

D. They generally believe in "rugged Individualism," that the individual can solve his/her own needs much better than the government.

E. The Republican Party (the largest conservative party in America) is a conservative party because its members support states's rights, are in favor of big business, and oppose federal regulation of the economy.

Liberals (Left Wing):

A. Liberals believe that positive governmental action is the best means to correct the abuses and shortcomings of society (ie: social security)

B. Liberals are for rapid social change (ie: busing, civil rights legislation)

C. They believe that the federal government can better meet the needs of the people because of its greater financial and intellectual resources.

D. The Democratic Party (the largest liberal party in America) is a liberal party because its members believe in a strong centralized federal government that is used as an instrument of social change.