Liberalism

Though most of my views are left leaning, I don't really identify as a liberal. I like to use the term "progressive" to describe myself, although that's really just a preference of nomenclature. I tend to agree with most of the tenants of liberalism; social justice, environmental protection, social assistance programs, LGBT rights, and the need for universal health care just to name a few. However, I recognize that no political ideology is perfect and they all come with their drawbacks. I think many young liberals have indeed become too overly sensitive when it comes to social issues. I think that instead of fighting social injustice where and when it is actually, they are simply looking for excuses to be offended. Another problem I have with younger liberals is that many of them would rather silence differing views than have a healthy dialogue and I think this is detrimental to democracy in and of itself. However, I think those that have the aforementioned tendencies aren't nearly as prevalent as some think they are. Many people think that all of these young liberal college students are like this and I know from my own higher education experience that this simply just isn't true. Most college students I've met aren't afraid of ideas that are different from their own and welcome healthy debate. One of the biggest things I agree with about liberalism is the recognition of the need for immediate action when it comes to environmental protection. I think that the moment I realized this was so important to me was when I became involved in environmental clubs in high school and after looking at all the political ideologies, liberals appeared to be the most concerned with environmental issues. This was a large reason I was drawn to the ideology. Another thing that drew me to liberalism was that those on the left tend to be the most active in wanting to mend the mistakes of those that came before them, whether it be institutional racism, sexism, homophobia or any one of other similar injustices. Most people would describe me as a liberal, and I don't really have a problem with that because, to an extent, they are right. However, I don't believe in casting out ideas that I don't agree with and I think that is one of the most important tenants of liberalism that, unfortunately, is often forgot about or down right ignored. As long as we continue to have a healthy exchange of ideas and civil cooperation, I believe that progress is inevitable and that's the main reason I remain hopeful about the future.