Whatever happened to the "moderate" American? In this polarized political climate there seems to be a need to label everyone who expresses a viewpoint. Liberal or Conservative in various degrees seem to be the stock labels for us nowadays. This makes it easier to discuss issues since we now know what the other person is thinking based on the label. Of course, they couldn't possibly hold a view that is not verbatum from the liberal or conservative talking points that we get from talk radio or cable TV. When we use labels as a crutch, we leave no room for independent thinking. We assume this person has a conservative or liberal view on all issues. How simplistic!
Suggestion: Avoid labeling people and just listen to what they have to say. And, if you must use labels, add a third label to your list: MODERATE. There are many more moderate Americans than the talk shows would like you to believe. If people would think for themselves and stay away from labels, the talk shows would go off the air.
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