left-wing/right-wing bare bones

[johncomic]

To me, the left vs. right debate boils down to co-operation vs. competition.

“We should help each other out” vs. “Every man for himself”.

To me, human society is by its very nature co-operative. Society first came into existence when two cavemen got together and realized that they could get more done by working together and helping each other out, than they could do individually. Our daily lives are only possible in their current form because of our support net built out of the co-operation of thousands or millions of our fellow citizens.

Therefore, to me, any political system that doesn't actively support co-operation and helping each other out, is by its very nature anti-social.

Granted, when we help each other out (and, by extension, share), some of us end up with less that we could amass if left to our own devices. So I can understand why those who are primarily interested in how much they can get for themselves, might not be as interested in co-operating. But, again: anti-social.

Just sayin.


BTW, I'm planning to limit my political venting to today only, in the aftermath of last night's election. After this, I'm all about comics and unpopular music again!

Comments

[alisonebruce.livejournal.com]

Your words echo my feelings on the issue. As Red Green would say: "Remember, I'm pulling for ya. We're all in this together!"

[ginsu.livejournal.com]

Society first came into existence when two cavemen got together and realized that they could get more done by working together and helping each other out, than they could do individually.

True.

What if the cavemen think about "getting things done" in different timeframes, though? That's part of the trick too.

If the value created is instant and penalty-free, then helping leads to the best outcome.

Example: A kid whose Dad gave him ten chocolate bars -- more than he needs -- gives one to his chocolate-craving friend, who has none. Both are happier.

If, however, the value created is slower to manifest, and/or carries a significant penalty, things get more complicated.

Example: A kid who worked hard for four years to get straight As in high school (to get into a great college) does not want to have to give his As to kids who slacked off and have lousy GPAs (so they can get into college). This system penalizes excellence, rewards indolence, and leads to a worse outcome.

Both these perspectives have merit, I think. In US terms, you could label the first perspective Progressive and the second one Conservative.

In creating public policy, it's difficult finding a balance between helping people who need help (the progressive goal) and killing the cultural incentive to excel, and with it, excellence (the conservative fear).