Liberals, Conservatives and Moral Philosophy

1. Liberals, Conservativesand Moral Philosophy Please Do Now: Take the Ideological Survey

2. Essential Questions • To what extent am I liberal or conservative on matters of politics and economics? • What are the moral roots of liberal and conservative political philosophies? Learning Goals: • I can explain several elements of my political beliefs in terms of how they align to others. • I understand some of the ways that these beliefs rest upon the foundations of my morality, and others. • I can discuss dystopic concepts in reference to contemporary political beliefs.

3. Agenda: • A little lecture on liberals vs. conservatives • Analyze your political philosophy survey • View an intriguing TED Talk on the roots of moral philosophy • Debrief • Consider your moral philosophy in light of your political views

4. If you responded to a conservative statement with “T” place a “C” in the last column. • If you responded to the same statement with an “F” place and “L” in the column. 1. C 6. L 11. L 16. C 21. C 2. C 7. L 12. L 17. C 22. L 3. C 8. C 13. C 18. C 23. L 4. L 9. C 14. C 19. L 24. C 5. C 10. L 15. L 20. C 25. C

5. And you are… 21-25 Liberal responses Strong Liberal 16-20 Liberal responses Weak Liberal 21-25 Conservative responses Strong Conserv 16-20 Conservative responses Weak Conserv 10-15 of either responses Moderate

6. Economics

7. Socio-Politics

9. Voter Profiles Jane: “I worked my way up from poverty to become the successful business owner I am today. I get frustrated when I think that my tax money goes to support people who won’t help themselves. I think part of the blame belongs with the media – they promote all the wrong values.” Jim: “I really don’t care what other people do in their free time, as long as they don’t bother me. I sure don’t like it when the government tells me what to do with my money or in my own home – I’m certainly not going to turn around and do the same thing to my neighbors.” Johnny: “I really worry about the state of the world today. It seems like more and more kids are growing up in poverty and there’s no one there to help them. I think we need to do more toward providing healthcare and education programs for our young people.” Jamie: “These days, you can’t be too careful. I think we need to spend a lot more money on the national defense. I wish there was a police officer on every corner! The police could search my car all they want, since I don’t break the law. I also think the government should crack down on the media – their reporting gives our enemies an inside look at all our military preparations.”

10. Who’s Liberal? • I stand for loyalty, respect for authority, and sanctity • I stand for justice, compassion, and equality of opportunity

11. Who’s Conservative? • I secrete more skin moisture when I see disgusting images, such as a person eating worms • I prefer dogs who are empathetic, not subservient

13. Jonathan Haidt: The moral roots of liberals and conservatives • http://www.ted.com/talks/jonathan_haidt_on_the_moral_mind.html • http://www.yourmorals.org