Liberal versus Conservative Ideology

Flashcards defining core concepts, political positions, demographics, and aging trends associated with liberal and conservative ideologies.

Liberals vs. Conservatives

• Liberal = Equality

• Conservative = Liberty

Scope of Government - What size government does each support?

• Liberal = Larger national government

• Conservative = Smaller national government

National vs. State Power - Who should have more power?

• Liberal = National

• Conservative = State

Taxes

• Liberal = Tax the rich more

• Conservative = Keep taxes low

Government Spending

• Liberal = Increase spending to solve domestic issues

• Conservative = Keep spending low

Poverty

• Liberal = More national government help + spending

• Conservative = More state responsibility

Death Penalty

• Liberal = Against

• Conservative = Support

Military / Defense

• Liberal = Spend less; avoid military intervention

• Conservative = Strong military; higher defense spending

Gun Legislation

• Liberal = Heavily restrict

• Conservative = Limit restrictions

Abortion

• Liberal = Freedom of choice

• Conservative = Right to life

Affirmative Action

• Liberal = Favor

• Conservative = Oppose

Grants

• Liberal = Categorical

• Conservative = Block or Revenue Sharing

Judicial Philosophy

• Liberal = Activist

• Conservative = Restraintist

Environmental protection?

• Liberal = More business regulations

• Conservative = Against heavier business regulations

Immigration

• Liberal = Support amnesty + Dreamers

• Conservative = Strict enforcement + reform laws