Roots of Leftist Leanings

Submitted by Kevin Kelley (United States), Jan 31, 2003 at 12:59

Congratulations Daniel Pipes!

Over the past year I have been mulling liberal doctrine (philosophically) as well as observing the everyday events here in Boulder Colorado, where it is on display daily, and I have come to some conclusions.

It is my belief that the protesters you see are the first generation of children raised in an atmosphere of disdain for religion and a systemic embracing of multiculturalism. In this environment, multiculturalism, and its touchstone "tolerance", have replaced religious values. As a result, your average 22 year old protester has their whole self-worth wrapped up in how tolerant they are...for the underdog, for the environment, for racial equality, or for whatever movement they are aligned with-as defined by the leaders the respective movement.

The selfishness of such people knows almost no bounds because there is little in the way of real right and wrong. It's all about feeling good about oneself...that one did the right thing in being against abstract notions of "war" and "death" and being in favor of "freedom" and "the environment".

Having genuflected at the alter of these beliefs, one can go about the day blissfully ignorant of the real world tradeoffs that move society and culture forward. In many ways, this is why such people are so loud. When many don't really understand the big picture--and I concede that it is complicated--it becomes very important for them to shut off debate before they are exposed for the fools that they are.

Some would childishly retort that I am the fool for being so presumptuous as to "judge" others, but I would simply say I don't really care....especially if it comes from an intellectually weak corner of the debate.

Kevin Kelley
Boulder, CO

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