Human Nature Political Left Basically good Since people are basically good, the bad they do is caused by external factors such as poverty, culture, media, racism, environment, etc. Political Right Neither good or bad; but selfish Since human nature is selfish, weak, violent and lazy, internal factors such as character development, strong family values and morals will help to battle both inner and outer negative influences. The Role of Government Political Left Political Right Compassion Enforce Justice Give people in prison a Ensure people pay the full second chance and let them off early. penalty for their crime. What is the source of evil? Political Left Political Right Forces outside the person Forces within the person like such as culture, poverty, parents, media, etc. the tendency for violence, greed, and selfishness What is the cause of criminal violence? Political Left TV violence, poverty, handguns, government cutbacks of social programs. The inner city breeds crime. Political Right Lack of moral values Most poor people don’t commit crimes. Crime was lowest during the Depression and the rich break laws just as often. The main cause of murder Political Left Guns Political Right Lack of moral values The cause of unwed mothers and irresponsible fathers Political Left Lack of condoms and sex education Political Right Lack of moral values from the parents. Greatest Fear Political Left The Christian Right Political Right Societal Decay Morality Political Left Political Right It’s relative to the person, It’s universal. There is a right their culture, and socioeconomic class. and a wrong regardless of culture. Source of knowledge Political Left Political Right Secularism Religion More innocent people have The reason for war in our history has been mostly due to religious wars. been slaughtered, tortured, and killed in the 20th century due to secular governments like the Nazi’s and the Communists than any other ideology. Over 100,000,000 people died in Nazi Germany, Stalin’s Russia, and Mao’s China where there was no freedom of religion. Discover Your Values • Research different political and social issues. • When looking at an issue or a value, ask yourself, “What effect will this choice have on others? • Ask yourself, “What is right or wrong, as I understand it? • If everyone followed my example, what kind of world would this become? • What is your stand on legalizing drugs? Abortion? Gay Marriage? Health Care? The Iraq and Afghanistan War? Can torture ever be used? Recommendations! Spend frequent time alone in reflective thought or journal writing about personal and social issues. Adopt an open attitude toward those whose value systems differ from yours and develop a willingness to test your own values. Use significant contacts with others who are willing to challenge your values and beliefs.