Can a Liberal Agree with Conservatives?

Liberty, an idea that has shaped human progress for centuries, finds itself at the heart of this discussion. Historically, the term Liberals signified individuals who championed free-market economics, broad civil liberties under the rule of law, and individual property rights. Their foundational belief was that the best way to safeguard individual rights was to limit the power of the government.

The Evolution of Progressive Ideology

Fast forward to the early 20th century, where the term 'Liberal' began to take on a new meaning. Progressives, representing both the Democratic and Republican parties, rejected the traditional liberal focus on individual rights and freedoms. They advocated for a system where politicians and bureaucrats wielded considerable power over the economy and societal lives. This shift marked a significant departure from the earlier liberal philosophy.

Controversial Enterprises of Progressivism

Progressives engaged in several enterprises that raised eyebrows and sparked controversy. One of the most notable was Eugenics, an idea that suggested applying scientific management to breeding humans to produce 'better' offspring. While both conservatives and liberals opposed Eugenics, their reasons diverged. Conservatives often viewed it through a lens of religious and moral opposition, similar to contemporary conservative responses to abortion. Liberals, on the other hand, rejected Eugenics on the grounds that individuals should be free to pursue their own happiness, unencumbered by government intervention or control.

Progressive Racial and Economic Policies

The progressive movement was not without its critics. Progressives were criticized for their approach to Social Darwinism, which suggested a 'hands-off' policy was akin to a 'law-of-the-jungle' approach to human breeding. Furthermore, these policies often held racist undertones, leading to the creation of Jim Crow laws. The progressive stance on prohibition also garnered criticism, with many arguing that it was not universally popular.

WWII and Prohibition Controversies

The progressive push into WWII, which many Americans later viewed unfavorably as it led to numerous casualties, also added to their unpopularity. Additionally, the progressive support of prohibition, which was met with mixed reactions, further strained their support among the general public. Contrastingly, these ideologies were markedly different from the traditional liberal beliefs and ideals as held by Woodrow Wilson and others.

Woodrow Wilson and the Progressive Movement

Woodrow Wilson, a proponent of progressivism, led the movement with a strong hand. However, notable figures like Teddy Roosevelt, though a Republican, also aligned with progressive ideas. Other influential presidents like Warren Harding and Herbert Hoover were considered progressive-adjacent. Their views often blurred the lines between progressive and conservative ideologies, challenging the traditional definitions of liberal and conservative stances.

Calvin Coolidge: The Fiscal Conservative

In stark contrast, Calvin Coolidge stood out as a fiscal conservative who opposed aggressive government intervention. While he opposed strong governance, Coolidge supported women's rights and vehemently opposed racial injustice, advocating for citizenship for Native Americans. His famous "Toleration and Liberalism" speech in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1924 highlighted his commitment to liberty and equality. Coolidge's support for Howard University's medical program significantly improved healthcare for African Americans, laying the groundwork for future federal investments in higher education for minorities.

Barry Goldwater: Libertarian Feminist

Another notable right-wing liberal was Arizona Senator Barry Goldwater. Although placed on the right by his staunch anti-communism and opposition to big government programs, Goldwater was one of the strongest advocates of individual liberty. Goldwater was a lifelong member of the NAACP and helped found the Arizona chapter. His promotion of desegregation at the Arizona Air National Guard in 1946 was groundbreaking. Throughout the 1980s, Goldwater consistently championed personal liberties, rejecting the intrusion of religion into politics.

Conclusion

These examples illustrate how the definitions of liberal and conservative have evolved over time. Modern standards might classify a fiscal conservative like Coolidge as a right-of-center figure, whereas he was clearly the opposite of the leftist, big government, and racist policies of the progressive movement. Similarly, Barry Goldwater represented a blend of anti-communist conservatism and social liberalism, showcasing the complex nature of political alignment. Can a liberal agree with conservatives? The answer lies in redefining our understanding of both ideologies within the context of their historical and contemporary manifestations.