“Moderate” is probably the most popular political designation in America today. It implies reasonableness and an open mind, as opposed to those “loonies” on either end of the political spectrum.
An ability to listen to and understand opposing views is certainly vital. But the tendency to think all policy is solved by “meeting in the middle” is dangerous. Some issues require principle, not pragmatism. Two plus two equals four, and no amount of political haggling to a ‘middle ground’ of five or six will make those answers correct. Polls are not automatically a barometer of the best approach to a problem, since the political “center” migrates over time:
Abortion goes from back alleys to big business. The “love that dare not speak its name” now refuses to shut up. A previously prohibited Federal Income Tax is promised to “only affect the top 1% of the population,” but within a century is pinching every family BUT those.
The desire to appear “moderate” in our politically correct culture is paralyzing many who know our country is on a wrong course. Opposing the center today will earn you the labels like ‘racist,’ ‘homophobe,’ or ‘vigilante.’ Ironically, defending the political worldview held by the Founding Fathers is liable to be equated with extremism today. In the face of this, one must simply say “so be it,” and press ahead with what is right.
“Extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice; moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue.” Barry Goldwater
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