NEW CASTLE —
Editor, the News,
Liberalism is the belief in the importance of liberty and equality.
It established the fundamental ideas of constitutions, democracy, free and fair elections, human rights, capitalism, free and fair trade and the separation of church and state.
These are ideas widely accepted by political groups that do not profess liberalism.
It became a powerful force in the Age of Enlightenment, when people began to question the prevailing types of governments, i.e., hereditary states, absolute monarchies, established religions, the divine rights of kings. It was promoted by those who believed in natural rights for all and the social contract that argues for rule of law and for government that is subjected to the wants of the governed.
Americans are liberals in the true sense of these definitions.
So why all the ranting and raving in political discourse about how terrible those of us who believe as liberals that government can do so much more to make the American Dream available to all citizens?
New liberalism promotes a greater role for government in improving devastating social conditions. We no longer live in an agricultural society where land, much of it free, was available to all. We live in a more urban, complex, crowded country where everyone is not afforded the opportunity to work and earn a comfortable living.
Much needs to be done to insure that everyone who wants a chance can thrive in today’s America.
In true liberal tradition, our government took on the role of improving the lives and circumstances of its citizens in the past and can do so again. Instead, under the guise of financial cost, right-wing conservatives are attempting to destroy years of progress our country has made in giving a modicum of dignity and security to its citizens.
I’m proud to be a liberal.
Fred Minteer
Minteer Lane
Edinburg
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Government has big role in creating better lives
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Bible presents rules that may be offensive
Editor, The News: Sally Herold (May 6 letter) claims marriage equality goes against God’s law.
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People should check building permit rules
Editor, The News: No one wants the government in his life.
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Nation has survived without a moral code
Editor, The News: We Americans are proud of the fact that we have had a democracy for several hundred years and yet, we have never had, as a nation, a true moral code.
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First Amendment provides for differing viewpoints
Editor, The News: I am replying to Matthew Finamore’s May 3 letter criticizing the newspaper for publishing Joseph Waltenbaugh’s letter criticizing gay marriage.
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Homeowners group may be established
Editor, The News: We are optimistic about the progress and direction of our city. More residents are becoming involved with positive change.
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Government is reason for Second Amendment
Editor, The News: As a Republican, an American and a man who studied history very diligently, I feel that I must speak up about a letter that I have reason to speak against.
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Lost officer provided much to community
Editor, The News: Officer Jerry. That was what we called him at our LCARF meetings.
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Recalling a judge with local links
Editor, The News: Gary Lancaster, chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, died recently.
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Stand up for New Castle by showing up at polls
Editor, The News: “Stand Up For New Castle.” There is no better way to stand up for New Castle than by voting on Tuesday.
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