Human NaturePolitical Left Political Right

Basically good

Since people are basically good, the bad they do is caused by external factors such as poverty, culture, media, racism, environment, etc.

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 GovernmentPolitical Left Political Right

Compassion

Give people in prison a second chance and let them off early.

Enforce Justice

Ensure people pay the full penalty for their crime.

What is the source of evil?Political Left Political Right

Forces outside the person such as culture, poverty, parents, media, etc.

Forces within the person like the tendency for violence, greed, and selfishness

What is the cause of criminal violence?Political Left Political Right

TV violence, poverty, handguns, government cutbacks of social programs. The inner city breeds crime.

Lack of moral valuesMost poor people don’t

commit crimes. Crime was lowest during the Depression and the rich break laws just as often.

The main cause of murderPolitical Left Political Right

Guns Lack of moral values

The cause of unwed mothers and irresponsible fathers

Political Left Political RightLack of condoms and sex

educationLack of moral values

from the parents.

Greatest FearPolitical Left Political Right

The Christian Right Societal Decay

MoralityPolitical Left Political RightIt’s relative to the

person, their culture, and socio-economic class.

It’s universal. There is a right and a wrong regardless of culture.

Source of knowledgePolitical Left Political RightSecularismThe reason for war in

our history has been mostly due to religious wars.

ReligionMore innocent people have

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.