[Mamzelle]

The conservative vision is the tragic vision. We do not believe in the perfectability of human nature. Rather, we believe in freedom and the rule of law to bring about the best possible results , given our state of original sin.

[BigBobber]

Liberals believe that most men are evil and the masses must be guided by an enlightened cadre of "good" people. The self-appointed rightous few feel justified in imposing stricts laws and punishments to ensure that people do the right thing.

Conservatives believe that most men are good, and will do the right thing in most cases (especially in regards to their own families and neigbors). A nanny state is not needed to control the masses because most men realize it is in their own interest to behave in a civilized fashion. However, conservatives realize a small number of evil men will always be with us, and form limited government to provide a common defense against such men.

Those of you who think greed is evil will be philosophically ill-equipted to counter those truely evil men who want to steal the fruits of your labor. All they have to do to disarm you is make you feel guilty for wanting what is yours.