Liberals favor individual liberty and equality of opportunity, support loose interpretation of the constitution to change with modern society, and believe government should address social issues through healthcare, education and welfare programs. Conservatives favor tradition over change, strict interpretation of the constitution, limited government involvement in social issues, and individual/non-profit solutions over government programs. The political spectrum ranges from left-wing views supporting heavy government control to right-wing views preferring limited government and free markets.

2. Political Ideology A fundamental belief that one has A philosophy that people subscribe to Often brought on by an emotional, spiritual or moral condition

3. Liberals Individual liberty is the most important political goal Stresses equality of opportunity “ Loose Constructionist” Constitutional interpretation may change as modern society evolves Government has a social responsibility Healthcare, education, welfare, civil rights Economic liberals favor extensive government involvement in economic policymaking and regulation of business Social liberals favor limited government regulation of individual behavior

4. Conservatives Favor tradition over change Religious, cultural, or nationally defined beliefs and customs “ Strict Constructionists” Constitutional interpretation should remain constant through the years Individuals and voluntary (non-profits and faith based) associations should be given the responsibility for social issues Economic conservatives favor limited government involvement in economic policymaking and regulation of business Laissez-Faire Economics Social and political conservatives favor extensive government regulation of individual behavior

5. Political Spectrum Republicans Democrats Moderates / Independents Left Wing Right Wing Center Communism Nazism

6. Center Left Wing Right Wing Democrats Moderates / Independents Republicans Political Spectrum

7. Social Economic No Govt. Control Heavy Govt. Control Heavy Govt. Control Conservative Libertarian Totalitarian Liberal Bob Barr Ralph Nader Barack Obama John McCain