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Why It's a Privilege to be a Progressive in 2013 by Paul Buchheit
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/12/31
***SNIP
1. We focus on community rather than the individual.
As George Lakoff put it, "For progressives, democracy is based on citizens caring about each other..to provide through the government..a means by which citizens pay for..infrastructure..
education..health and safety..a justice system..energy..communication..transportation."
***SNIP
2. We focus on progress rather than profits.
Progressives are concerned about real issues that affect everyone, not just investors. We're moved to action by studies that show we're near the bottom in child poverty, children's health and safety, and infant mortality.
***SNIP
3. We rely on insight rather than instinct.
Conservatives preach a spirit of self-reliance that goes way beyond common sense, rejecting, for example, assistance programs that give nine-tenths of their benefits to the elderly, disabled, or working households.