Let's test. How many SoCons would accept this short list below to their own ideological/political positions:
• Put the individual first and allow people to decide for themselves what is best for their own well-being and that of their families[in regards to economic liberty];
• Recognize that the free market is the only reliable predictor of the real prices of goods, labor, and capital;
• Use government to shape a fair and secure environment, protect private property and the value of money, enforce contracts, and promote competition, but not to produce or sell goods and services; and
• Emphasize openness to international trade and investment as the surest paths to increased productivity and economic growth. A government that limits its involvement in economic activity consistent with these principles maximizes opportunities for individuals to reach their full economic potential and promotes the greatest levels of prosperity and human well-being for society as a whole.
Instead of getting off into philosophy and minutia, why not keep it in the real world, politics and elections.
“As the Republican Party looks to the future, a principal challenge will be to find ways to attract minority voters. Polls show black and Hispanic voters are significantly more religious, pro-life and supportive of traditional marriage than the general electorate. All three of last year’s state marriage amendments passed with decisive help from minority voters, underscoring that conservative positions on social issues will help Republicans as they court these voters.
The Republican Party’s recent woes are a result not of an America that no longer appreciates conservative principles, but of a party that failed to live up to the vows it made to the nation 30 years ago. But there are reasons for hope.”