Human Nature

Political Left
Basically good Since people are basically

Political Right
Neither good or bad; but

good, the bad they do is caused by external factors such as poverty, culture, media, racism, environment, etc.

selfish Since human nature is selfish, weak, violent and lazy, internal factors such as character development, strong family values and morals will help to battle both inner and outer negative influences.

The Role of Government

Political Left
Compassion Give people in prison a

Political Right
Enforce Justice Ensure people pay the full

second chance and let them off early.

penalty for their crime.

What is the source of evil?

Political Left
Forces outside the person

Political Right
Forces within the person like

such as culture, poverty, parents, media, etc.

the tendency for violence, greed, and selfishness

What is the cause of criminal violence?

Political Left
TV violence, poverty,

Political Right
Lack of moral values Most poor people dont

handguns, government cutbacks of social programs. The inner city breeds crime.

commit crimes. Crime was lowest during the Depression and the rich break laws just as often.

The main cause of murder

Political Left
Guns

Political Right
Lack of moral values

The cause of unwed mothers and irresponsible fathers

Political Left
Lack of condoms and sex

Political Right
Lack of moral values from the

education

parents.

Greatest Fear
Political Left
The Christian Right

Political Right
Societal Decay

Morality
Political Left
Its relative to the person,

Political Right
Its universal. There is a right

their culture, and socioeconomic class.

and a wrong regardless of culture.

Source of knowledge
Political Left
Secularism The reason for war in our

Political Right
Religion More innocent people have

history has been mostly due to religious wars.

been slaughtered, tortured, and killed in the 20th century due to secular governments like the Nazis and the Communists than any other ideology. Over 100,000,000 people died in Nazi Germany, Stalins Russia, and Maos China where there was no freedom of religion.

Discover Your Values

Research different political and social issues.
When looking at an issue or a value, ask yourself,

What effect will this choice have on others? Ask yourself, What is right or wrong, as I understand it? If everyone followed my example, what kind of world would this become? What is your stand on legalizing drugs? Abortion? Gay Marriage? Health Care? The Iraq and Afghanistan War? Can torture ever be used?

Recommendations!
Spend frequent time alone in reflective

thought or journal writing about personal and social issues. Adopt an open attitude toward those whose value systems differ from yours and develop a willingness to test your own values. Use significant contacts with others who are willing to challenge your values and beliefs.