[lbo-talk] definition of liberalism and it's effects.

John Thornton jthorn65 at sbcglobal.net
Tue Sep 25 16:14:36 PDT 2007


It seems people on this list have widely varying definitions of liberalism. Liberal seems to be a pejorative term for a great many. Almost a synonym for Democrat in extreme cases.

It appears some, including myself, have a broader definition.

Claiming liberalism is the cause of abuses committed by ostensibly liberal states is an error. Ostensibly socialist states have committed horrible acts but claiming those acts are the inevitable result of socialism is also incorrect. Neither gulags nor Vietnam are made necessary by any political or social system. I think everyone here should know this (perhaps an error on my part) but for some reason like to behave otherwise when they feel it convenient. Perhaps some here genuinely feel Vietnam was a necessity under ostensibly liberal state and that gulags were necessary under ostensibly socialist states but I find this hard to believe. If you subscribe to this idea a fuller explanation of why would be appreciated.

John Thornton



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