Why I am a progressive liberal

In the vibrant tapestry of political ideologies, liberals have long been the weavers of progress, threading the needle through the fabric of society with innovative ideas and transformative policies. True liberalism is rooted in the pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice, ideals that are inherently progressive in nature. We believe in:

Freedom: It’s the cornerstone of our society, the very essence of a progressive vision. It’s not just about the absence of constraints but the presence of opportunities. ‘Freedom from’ represents our shield against the overreach of authority (in particular, from the state), ensuring that our personal spheres and beliefs remain untouched. ‘Freedom to’ is our sword, cutting through the barriers to a life of fulfillment, where economic security and opportunity are not just ideals but realities for all.

Opportunity: This is the promise of a level playing field, where every individual, regardless of their background, can aspire to and achieve greatness. It’s a commitment to political equality and the creation of a society where economic and social mobility are not just possible but encouraged. It’s about dismantling the systemic barriers that hold people back and building ladders of opportunity for everyone to climb.

Responsibility: With freedom and opportunity comes the obligation to ourselves and to each other. Personal responsibility is about striving for excellence and integrity in our own lives. But beyond that, it’s about our collective responsibility to foster a society that prioritizes the common good over individual gain. It’s about ensuring that our actions contribute to social justice, economic fairness, and the strengthening of the communal bonds that underpin our society.

Cooperation: In the tapestry of our shared existence, cooperation is the thread that binds us together. It’s the understanding that individual rights are best preserved when we work in concert with others. It’s about embracing empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to the well-being of our fellow citizens. Progressive liberals believe that a society divided by selfish pursuits is one that cannot stand. Instead, we must unite in our efforts to achieve common goals and uplift every member of our community.

In essence, these values form the blueprint for a society where freedom rings true, opportunity knocks on every door, responsibility is shared, and cooperation is the norm. It’s a vision of a world where progress is measured not just by the wealth of a few, but by the well-being of many, and where the health of our planet is seen as integral to our own.

The term "Progressive"

Yet, there's a tug-of-war over the term 'progressive.' The left wing, with its own distinct set of principles and goals, seeks to claim this label as exclusively their own. However, it's important to recognize that progressivism isn't the sole province of any one group. It's a broad church, encompassing a spectrum of beliefs united by a common desire for societal advancement. 

Progressivism is the idea of moving society forward, creating a more equitable and just environment for all its members. However, there is a common misconception that progressivism is synonymous with an expansion of state and government control. This is not necessarily the case, and I would argue that true progressivism seeks to empower individuals rather than enlarge governmental power.

The essence of progressivism lies in its commitment to innovation, adaptation, and the betterment of society. It's about finding the most effective means to ensure freedom, opportunity, and security for every citizen. While some solutions may involve government action, others might rely on community initiatives, private enterprise, or individual empowerment.

An increase in state and government can lead to bureaucracy, inefficiency, and a loss of personal freedoms. It can create a system where individuals are overly reliant on governmental support, which can stifle innovation, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility. In this view, a larger government is seen as a step backward, not forward, as it can hinder the very progress it seeks to promote.

True progressivism, then, is about striking the right balance. It's about ensuring that the government is efficient, responsive, and accountable, while also fostering an environment where individuals and communities can thrive independently. It's about creating a society where the state serves the people, not the other way around.

The left wing notion that more state and more government equates to progressivism is a flawed one. Progressivism is about empowering individuals and communities to create a society that is fair, just, and prosperous for all, with the state playing a role that is supportive rather than domineering.

Less state, better state

This explanation emphasizes the importance of individual and community empowerment over increased government intervention as a hallmark of progressive thought.

Liberals champion a brand of progressivism that is pragmatic, inclusive, and forward-thinking. They advocate for a balanced approach that values individual liberties while promoting social welfare, understanding that true progress is achieved not by radical upheaval but through thoughtful reform.

The real progressive spirit, therefore, is not about who owns the term but about who embodies its essence. Liberals have consistently been at the forefront of progressive change, advocating for civil rights, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity for all. Their vision of progress is one that builds bridges rather than walls, fostering a society where every individual has the chance to thrive.

In the end, progressivism is defined not by labels but by actions. It's measured by the strides taken towards a more equitable and sustainable future. And in this ongoing journey, liberals stand as the true progressives, carrying the torch of progress with a steady hand and an open heart.