Ran across this article from Jan '08, pre-election. Succinct, to the point....and correct.
*****************
"While all Americans cherish the triumphant individual myth, we often disagree on crucial elements of the narrative. One point of contention is the eligibility rules. Historically, liberals have supported a more inclusive definition of who the narrative applies to; for example, progressives argue that everyone should be eligible to run for President: male or female, black or white, gay or straight, believer or atheist, able-bodied or physically challenged. Conservatives contend the position should be reserved for white, male, straight, able-bodied Christians, and apply similar restrictions to other positions of power.
Another point of contention concerns the starting line for each of our lives. Liberals believe in the notion of a level playing field. They contend that every American deserves the right to unfettered opportunity and, therefore, it is unfair to provide some children with advantages that others do not have; for example, progressives believe every child has the right to a quality education. In contrast, conservative thinking is heavily influenced by economic Calvinism, particularly the notion that poverty is an indication God does not look with favor upon an individual: if a poor child is served by mediocre public schools and has inadequate healthcare, conservatives argue that's what God intended.
Liberal and conservative values and policies stem from their interpretation of the triumphant individual myth. Progressives defend the notion of elemental human rights, the idea of a strong social safety net - food, housing, medical care, and education. Conservatives emphasize property rights and the necessity of the rich and powerful to operate without interference.
On issue after issue, liberals and conservatives see things in a radically different light: The environment? Progressive see they have a responsibility to sustain a healthy environment for future generations - it's an extension of the notion of the common good. Conservatives see the environment as free resources to be used to maximize individual advantage. We perceive differently, because we have different core beliefs."
As I said, nailed it.
