07-03-2017, 08:33 PM
(07-03-2017, 06:57 PM)Warren Dew Wrote: Even Bob understands the difference between the "negative rights" or liberties in the Bill of Rights and the "positive rights" of Progressivism, even if he doesn't necessarily see their inherent opposition. X_4AD_84 is clueless, however.
There is lots of inherent opposition about these days. In a time of extreme partisanship, each side will cling to principles that they elevate to nigh on absolute. In general, I will abhor the extreme partisan and try to find a balance in the middle.
For me, Freedom from Want in general and the medical aspects of it in particular are worthy goals. To the extent large groups are cut out of sustainable life paths and decent health care, you'll get unrest. I understand that the rich always want to get richer, that many are willing to place strangers in poverty and deadly peril for a chance at a larger yacht. I see nothing in either the positive or negative rights which guarantees the right to a larger yacht.
Equality, yes. Life, yes. Absurd wealth, no.
To me, this seems a time of unequal wealth. Well, to be fair, most times are times of unequal wealth. Those who have, gets. Those with wealth and power in one way or another will enhance their wealth and power to increase their wealth and power. In most any human culture, that is an unfortunate trend which to my mind ought to be fought. Most crises feature a conflict in which some wealthy privileged group wishes to sustain privileges which many believe are past their time. Kings rule? Slaves serve? The capitalist class dictates over all? No thank you. Equality was an important central virtue of the Enlightenment and should be remembered.
Both positive and negative rights have worthy goals and a place in government. Right now, I'm not worried about soldiers quartering in my home, being able to speak my say, nor being able to worship as I please. These and other negative rights seem secure for me and for most. I am worried about access to sustainable income for most to all, for access to health care for all, but not worried about the size of people's yachts.
Thus, right now, it seems that Freedom from Want needs the priority in seeking a healthy balance.
That this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.