Reference no: EM133424006

Assignment:

What makes a person liberal or conservative (or, more radically left or right)? First of all, what beliefs or moral starting points do liberals and conservatives hold? Second, to what extent do liberals and conservatives agree with one another over basic American values? What factors might help explain why an individual becomes a liberal or conservative or any other, more radical ideological orientation - say, extreme right or left?

I believe that core values are what makes a person liberal or conservative. I think that these two ends of the political system are two words that are another way of saying core values. Liberals have a higher appreciation and acceptance for more diversity of those around them whereas conservatives tend to stick to tradition and don't explore much outside of a certain comfort zone. While both ends differ in values, both sides believe in equality and rights... just in very different ways. Based upon someone's backgrounds, cultures, morals, values, ideologies, and opinions, these factors are what make up which end of the political spectrum someone lies on.

Liberals and conservatives differ in their beliefs on the role of government, individual freedom, and the economy. Liberals tend to support a larger government with a focus on social welfare programs, while conservatives prioritize individual liberty and a smaller government with a free-market economy. Despite their differences, both groups generally agree on basic American values such as democracy, equality, and individual rights. Factors that contribute to one's political ideology include upbringing, education, socio-economic status, and personal experiences. Extreme ideological orientations such as far-right or far-left ideologies may be influenced by factors such as political dissatisfaction, extremist propaganda, and a desire for radical change.