Political 'Center' and Compromise

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In summary, the best things a government can do are often based on a balanced view that takes into account both left and right perspectives. However, polarization and extreme views can hinder progress and compromise is often necessary to achieve success. It is important to focus on common goals and find ways to work together, rather than pushing for perfect solutions that may not be realistic. The use of taxation and government bureaucracy is a controversial issue and it is important to consider personal agendas and the impact on others when making decisions.
  • #1
Zero
I was thinking...aren't the best things a government can do based on a view that neither the left nor right has all the answers? Isn't cooperation and a balanced view a good thing? Don't we lose something when we become so polarized with a sort of black/white perspective on everything?
 
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  • #2
Originally posted by Zero
I was thinking...aren't the best things a government can do based on a view that neither the left nor right has all the answers? Isn't cooperation and a balanced view a good thing? Don't we lose something when we become so polarized with a sort of black/white perspective on everything?

On the other hand, one might argue that each civil servant is bound to institute policy as he or she believes is best. What about the case where one side is right and the other side is wrong? Should those who are correct allow watered down policy in place of a known best solution? Of course, in the interest of getting things done, compromise is often the only true path to success. That's why someone once called politics "the art of what's possible".
 
  • #3


Originally posted by Ivan Seeking
On the other hand, one might argue that each civil servant is bound to institute policy as he or she believes is best. What about the case where one side is right and the other side is wrong? Should those who are correct allow watered down policy in place of a known best solution? Of course, in the interest of getting things done, compromise is often the only true path to success. That's why someone once called politics "the art of what's possible".
On the third hand(how many hands can we have?!?), representing the needs of everyone, not just the 1% who made serious campaign contributions, does not often have a single simple right answers. In most cases, the policy isn't 'watered down', it is just made to fit the most cases.

I am reminded of a phrase that goes something like 'don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good'...and I think it means that perfection is impossible, so let's not sacrifice the good we can do by chasing an unreasonable goal. For instance, the elimination of all terrorism would be a wonderful thing, but it is impossible. To resort to greater and greater losses of civil liberties to the point of America becoming a police state will not make terrorism go away completely, taking into account the law of diminishing returns.

The same goes for gun control. Past a certain point, more regulation will not equal less crime, so why keep pushing? Compromise with the other side instead, and get their cooperation in implementing good ideas, instead of alienating them by pushing for 'perfect' ideas.
 
  • #4
Originally posted by Zero
I was thinking...aren't the best things a government can do based on a view that neither the left nor right has all the answers? Isn't cooperation and a balanced view a good thing? Don't we lose something when we become so polarized with a sort of black/white perspective on everything?
Yes.

Though you may not believe it, I'm a fairly moderate conservative. Both sides tend to polarize on purpose to separate from the other side - I look at individual issues. There are a great many issues that both sides have extreme positions on simply because they want to distance themselves from the other party's position.

Clinton was popular not only because of his charisma, but because he was pretty much considered (right or wrong) a political centrist. By contrast, in the last election, Bush was pushed to the nomination by the Republican party machinery despite John McCain's massive crossover appeal - he wasn't far enough to the right for the party.
 
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  • #5
Unfortunately, we are in a weird place no, in America. Most of us agree in general, but when we hit specific issues we get very polarized. On the one hand, some people demonize welfare, but at the same time they want to also destroy any program that might help people stay off welfare.
 
  • #6
Originally posted by Zero
Unfortunately, we are in a weird place no, in America. Most of us agree in general, but when we hit specific issues we get very polarized. On the one hand, some people demonize welfare, but at the same time they want to also destroy any program that might help people stay off welfare. [/QUOTE}

Actually, I think most americans agree on goals but disagree on the best route to take in achieving them. Many see taxation and government bureaucracy as effective ways to reach these goals. Others see large government bureaucracy as wasteful, intrusive, inefficient and would prefer localized, community and personal responsibity approaches to issues. Then again there are others who see every issue as an opportunity to evoke their own personal agendas upon others. Of course putting all of these people together to resolve issues should be in itself a way to find compromise and moderation and maybe, comparitively speaking it has.
 
  • #7
Well, we have no choice but to have some taxation. 'States' rights' is often a codeword for racism. The same people who say 'no government intrusion' in their lives don't mind if teh government attepts to force others to act like they want them to.
 
  • #8
Originally posted by Zero
Well, we have no choice but to have some taxation. 'States' rights' is often a codeword for racism. The same people who say 'no government intrusion' in their lives don't mind if teh government attepts to force others to act like they want them to.

I'm sorry, but if this is in response to my post you're going to have to connect the dots for me, I don't see a direct correlation.
 
  • #9
Originally posted by kat
I'm sorry, but if this is in response to my post you're going to have to connect the dots for me, I don't see a direct correlation.

Just the first sentence...
 
  • #10
Zero- the key words were "and government bureaucracy " and as for "state rights" I don't know about were you live but here where I live "state rights" are usually in reference to unfunded mandates and/or federal bureaucratic pork heavy legislation that creates more paperwork then solutions, or those imposed by part of the good ole boy congressional clubhouse to line each others pockets, with us bearing the expense.
 
  • #11
Kat, let's not go to far off-topic, ok? Maybe we need a separate states' rights thread?
 

1. What is the "political center"?

The political center refers to a position or ideology that is seen as moderate or centrist, falling between the more extreme left and right positions. It is often associated with compromise and finding common ground between different political ideologies.

2. Why is compromise necessary in politics?

Compromise is necessary in politics because it allows for progress and effective decision-making. In a diverse society, there will always be differing opinions and priorities. Compromise allows for all parties to have their voices heard and find a middle ground that can satisfy the majority.

3. Can compromise be a weakness?

Compromise can be seen as a weakness by some, as it may require individuals or parties to give up some of their own beliefs or values. However, it can also be seen as a strength, as it shows a willingness to listen and work together towards a common goal.

4. Is there a limit to compromise in politics?

There is no set limit to compromise in politics, as it depends on the specific issues and the individuals involved. However, some may argue that compromising on certain core values or principles can be detrimental in the long run.

5. How can we encourage more compromise in politics?

Encouraging more compromise in politics requires open-mindedness, effective communication, and a willingness to find common ground. It also requires a political culture that values collaboration and problem-solving rather than division and polarization.

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