Liberals

Politically, to be a liberal means to favor reform or progress. Liberals and conservatives have opposing viewpoints on economics, social issues, and the role that the government should play in peoples’ day to day lives.

• Liberals believe that it is the job of the government to make sure that there is equality and social justice for every citizen, regardless of race or class. Basically, unlike conservatives, a liberal believes that it is the job of the government to solve the problems of the public as a whole

A liberal believes in affirmative action, which is promoting the equality of all races and ethnicity through educational and employment benefits. Liberals believe that due to the previous severe racism minorities and women have endured, giving them a leg up when it comes to educational and employment offers are a way to decrease the poverty levels among these groups. Conservatives believe that this gives an unfair advantage to individuals who may not be well qualified for a job but will get it due to affirmative action.

• A common liberal belief is that the government should be in charge of regulating the economy. Liberals believe that if the government does not keep small businesses and individuals safe from the takeover of large businesses, than the economy will crumble. Liberals believe that this is because the government is a public, not private sector.

• Liberals and conservatives differ drastically on their views of immigration reform. Liberals support an increase in legal immigration as well as allowing more legal immigrants into the United States each year. Liberals also believe in amnesty for illegal immigrants already living in the country. Although former President Bush believed the same thing, his proposal for amnesty was shot down by his fellow conservatives. A liberal also tends to believe that illegal immigrants should be allowed financial aid from the United States government for college.

• When it comes to religion, liberals believe in the complete separation of church and state. A liberal believes that religion has no place in the United States government. Liberals also believe that all mention of the word God should be removed from public and government areas. Liberals believe that religion should have absolutely no inference within the government.

Liberal beliefs are said to fall on the left side of political policy. Conservative views are considered to be right wing. Since liberal views tend to be considered progressive, it is common for young people to be liberal.