The Problems with Liberalism, Part 5

5. A liberal believes he owes other people a certain standard of dignity and decency.

• William J. Clinton is the personification of this lofty goal. He speaks well of individuals although he often criticizes actions. This is the way of the statesman (statesperson): communicating openly and effectively even with those who hold disagreeable positions. Most recent Presidents have had that ability, at least in public. But Clinton did it best. His approach towards his adversaries is worthy of emulation. One wonders, however, if swallowing all the anger to be so diplomatic had any bearing on his subsequent cardiovascular problems. At any rate, some things are worth the sacrifice.
• Would that statement #5 be true! How often over the years has the left been strident in it's criticism, not only of policies and positions, but of individuals whom they disagreed with! Whether it was CSNY's attack on "Southern Man" or "Bush lied" or mocking Dan Quayle or the latest liberal victim Sarah Palin. It is easy to show decency and dignity towards those you love, harder towards those you don't.
• By this standard, there are very few real liberals. The call-outs and put-downs by most liberals towards those with whom they disagree reminds DocBrain of the trash talking in the WWE.

In summary, a decent and dignified approach towards others is nearly always the best approach. This is actually a Conservative value, one that conveys good upbringing. That Liberals would aspire to this as well is encouraging. And as the saying goes, don't fight with a pig, you will both get dirty and only the pig will like it. Rather than raising your voice, raise the skill and support of your argument.