Freedom in Balance: Does Ideological Struggle Preserve Optimum Freedom?

Abstract

This thesis will explore how ideological thought manifests itself. On a linear spectrum, social, economic and political thoughts can be categorized into left-wing liberalism and right-wing conservatism. While the definition of each is elusive, generally the differences may be identified around certain issues inclusive of the size, role and morality of government, the limits of Bill of Rights protections, taxation and spending, private and societal needs, among others. Further, the liberal principles and goals of extreme left-wing egalitarianism will be shown to be diametrically opposed to the conservative aspects of extremist right-wing fascism. Although moderates compromise their views between conservative and liberal thought, the largest difference in American politics is represented between moderates and extremists.