Does liberal versus conservative present a false dichomy? Should both sides meet in the center?

MayCaesar

"Liberal", from "liberty", denotes a system of values based around individual freedoms and liberties.
"Conservative", from "to conserve", denotes a system of values based on resisting rapid change and preserving older values and traditions.

These are completely different terms, from completely different political axes. There is no center between them either, since they do not represent different sides of the same issue.

someone234

@MayCaesar that's the definition of what is now called a Libertarian as opposed to a left-wing-leaning Liberal.

piloteer

"@MayCaesar

I wouldn't say your description is incorrect, but I do think it tastes a bit oversimplified. When used in a political manner, the word "conservatism" does not necessarily mean, resisting change or progress (although some people do interpret it that way). Conservatism means, "conserving" the values indoctrinated in the constitution. Since the constitution does allow us the freedom to progress (whether it be socially or economically), then wanting to conserve those values, would not mean "to resist change", it means to "conserve" the freedoms that allow us to be able to progress. However, somewhere along the line, conservatism began to take on a social meaning as well, which links it to an older political term that isn't widely used today, "traditionalism". Traditionalism is absolutely meant as a resistance to change or progress. Your definition of conservatism, is a better description of the word "traditionalism". Someone234, does make a valid point. Your definition of liberal, better describes a libertarian. Ayn Rand did describe herself as a "traditional liberal".