DEFINITIONS

by David Brin, Ph.D.

Copyright © 2006, by David Brin. All rights reserved. No duplication or resale without permission.

Just as I try to distinguish between neoconservatives and conservatives of the Barry Goldwater variety -- who today appear to share almost no values in common -- likewise, I will often try to separate "liberal" from "leftist." (Although the habit of lumping is hard to break.) One major tactic of the right has been to insist on wedding these two, with a result that "liberal" has become a curse on the lips of millions of Americans. Despite the fact that nearly all of the Great American Accomplishments of the 20th Century have roots in the older meanings of that word.

Allowing this to happen has been a terrible mistake. The underlying clefts between liberals and leftists seem hidden for now. But they run deep. Honest liberals should show some awareness of them, just as honest conservatives should recognize the mutants who took over their movement.
ns of Americans. Despite the fact that nearly all of the Great American Accomplishments of the 20th Century have roots in the older meanings of that word.

Allowing this to happen has been a terrible mistake. The underlying clefts between liberals and leftists seem hidden for now. But they run deep. Honest liberals should show some awareness of them, just as honest conservatives should recognize the mutants who took over their movement.