Institute for Liberal Values
by Jim Peron

10/24/05

At the core of liberal principles is the idea that each individual has a right, the theologically minded call it a 'God-given' right, to make his own decisions. We may cajole and persuade and argue. But we can't force and take control of their life. We can't strip them of the dignity that they deserve as a fellow human being. And that means they will sometimes make mistakes. Perhaps they won't be nice to people when we think they should be. They may not help the sick, the lame and the halt. They may not say kind words to the widow or feed the hungry. They may even be unpleasant and cruel though I strongly suspect that means they are miserable and unhappy individuals. But none of us have a right to the gentle touch of a caring hand or the soothing words of friendship...

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Informant: Thomas L. Knapp