How Liberals and Conservatives are All the Same, and How "True" Conservatives Can Win

[Jason Taylor]

by Jason Taylor

Last week, a member of RebuildTheParty.com introduced me to a principle called "Deliberative Dialogue". As I was researching this, I found a very interesting quote of the philosopher Aristotle that I think you should hear.

"We deliberate not about ends," said Aristotle, "but about the means to attain ends." In other words, all constructive debate is aimed not at deciding what we want, but rather on deciding how to get what we want.

As I tried to apply this thought to our current political struggle, my first reaction was, "This is just silly." After all, we are debating serious differences of our "wants" here, both between ourselves as Republicans, and between ourselves and our Liberal friends. I decided to digress, though. After all, Aristotle is a well respected authority, and I should probably focus some attention on understanding his views before dismissing them outright.

Well, I'm glad I did. Inside this one simple quotation, I believe, is one of the single most important insights on where we have gone astray as a Party. Let me explain:

What do you want, politically speaking? Judging by the fact that you're reading this post, I'll assume that you want 2nd Amendment rights, immigration reform, Congressional oversight of the Fed, etc., right?

Well now I want you to look a little deeper. What do you really want? How about safe neighborhoods, where our kids can play outside during the day, and where we can feel secure in our homes at night? How about a secure border which protects us from foreign terrorists? How about a sound money supply that is stable and reliable?

Now here's the message: Think about your fellow Republicans, Democrats, Liberals, Independents, really every average American - don't they want these things too? Of course they do! They want safe streets as much as you do, for instance; they just have a different opinion on how to get there.

Well if we all want so many of the same things, then why do we argue with each other so viciously? Why do we call each other names, and question peoples' patriotism? Why do we insult our fellow citizens by dismissing their desires as being un-American?

Michael Brennan (Sorry Michael) Michael Burns is right: We don't need to have the mindset of the "Change Agent", but rather that of the "Challenger". We need to unite the American public by addressing the things that we all want. We need to re-ignite their belief in Reagan's "Shining City Upon a Hill". Only then can we truly Challenge the American voter - not on the virtue of their desires, but challenge them to see that, at heart, our desires and theirs are all the same.

If we truly want to advance our cause, we don't have to change our ideals. We have to change our approach to this debate. We need to be mindful to always speak of Conservatism in terms of its benefits, and how they will satisfy the American desire. We need to win over the hearts and minds of all Americans, liberal and conservative alike, not by by convincing them to love Conservatism, but by convincing them to love the Shining City. Only then will they be open to understanding that Conservatism is truly the way to get there.

[Tim Danyo]

We need to personally commit to educating ourselves about the pressing issues at hand and then actively work to share that info. with our fellow Americans in need. Where? The internet is obvious, but also with in the local Republican associations, the coffee shops, the meeting places, the networking socials, standing in line at the bank, the dinner tables. For instance: Free Market capitalism is now being blamed for the recent decline of the economy. What an outrage! How would you tackle this issue? Would you know how to argue effectively?

The understanding that most Americans want the same things for this country is helpful as we prepare to engage with those around us. We need to broadcast American liberty where ever we go! The right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is universal- Americans do want that. Socialism is on the deck, now, to prove it's power over individual liberty and the free market system of capitalism. Work to build your case for freedom and never forget to demonstrate that love of freedom and your American spirit in your own life. That will attract others to the cause of liberty. Liberty and justice for all.

[AndrewGillette]

Great post- "We need to unite, not divide" is a cliche that has lost its real meaning, but you expressed it meaningfully here. Americans (and humans in general) want the same thing: security and prosperity, and the freedom to achieve these things. Conservative thought has a lot to offer, especially if we can express not just opposition to over-reaching government, but strong alternatives to achieve these end results without sacrificing our principles of self-reliance and liberty.

[Jason Taylor]

Artemio, thanks for the flattering compliment; however, I assure you that it is the fault of single malt Scotch. :)

[Artemio Temo Muniz]

guaranteed connection here! the way you structure the message is gold!

[BiasedGirl]

Excellent post Jason. Part of our rebuilding is getting people relate to similar goals that can be achieved through conservative means. We must be the party of Common Sense.

[Whitehorse (Robin Ray)]

Excellent observations Jason. Someone on here posted a blog or forum thread on selling the why - what are the results wanted & how conservative Republicanism is the way to get those results. You are correct in that most people's desires are very similar, & challenging them as you put forth is a great way to move our party ideals forward.